History Undressed

Guest Blogger Pete Markovic on Guy Fawkes: History with a Bang!

2012-01-30T09:19:00.000-05:00

Today on History Undressed, I'd like to introduce you to a new guest blogger, Pete Markovic! He's written a fascinating piece for us on Guy Fawkes aka Guido Fawkes, a man of the Renaissance era.

Guy Fawkes - History with a Bang!

by Pete Markovic

Guy Fawkes
by Cruishank

Guido Fawkes born 13 April 1570, in Stonegate, Yorkshire, England, his short life of 36 years ended on 31 January 1606, at Old Palace Yard, Westminster, England.

Guido Fawkes, became a popular Spanish soldier belonging to a group of outmoded English Catholics, who plotted against the English Government in 1605.

His father Edward Fawkes was a notary of the religious courts. Records show that Guido Fawkes with his wife became the father of a son Thomas on 6 February 1591; it has not been established as accurate as removing the records leaves no evidence that the birth took place.

According to legend, Fawkes left England in 1593 or 1594 for Flanders and became a member of the Spanish army headed by Archduke Albert of Austria, who went on to become the ruler of the Netherlands.

The Gunpowder Plot

The Conspirators - Guy Fawkes is 3rd from the Left
by Crispijn van de Passe

The Gunpowder Plot was an intricately planned attempt blow up the houses of Parliment and to carry out the assassination of King James of England; he failed miserably. The plot to blow up the government building of Westminster might have failed, but his legend is decidedly much in the news, celebrated on November 5 each year in Britain.

The plot to blow up the government building of Westminster might have failed, but his legend is truly much in the news, celebrated on November 5 each year in Britain.

Consequently the perpetrators of the plot where destined to hang. When it came to Guido Fawkes’ turn at the noose, he jumped to his death from the top scaffold saving himself the suffering and humiliation of hanging.

From the Britannia History website about the death of Guido Fawkes:

“Last of all came the famed devil of all, Guy Fawkes made his end upon the gallows and the block, to the great joy of all the beholders that the land ended of so wicked a villainy”.

Sitting amongst his tools and elements of destruction waiting until the time was right.

Guy Fawkes Night

Guy Fawkes Night at Windsor by Paul Sandby

On November 5, 1605, Guy Fawkes, caught in the cellar of the British Houses of Parliament with 36 barrels of gunpowder was consequently tortured and executed.” However, it was a failed execution in that he committed suicide.

Excitement grows, and the pennies collect towards the purchase of fireworks to be taken to the annual gathering and finish off around the bonfire carefully built with a space on the top, for the effigy of Guy Fawkes some even going so far as supplying him with a chair. However, historically, his legend lives on, and the annual burning and celebration of his death and failed attempt to blow up the House of Commons in Westminster.

His death is celebrated with a bright display of colorful fireworks and a burning effigy, and it is uncertain why such a person to be celebrated in such a way. When it all boils down to it, what are they celebrating? Is it the failure of the fire, the attempted assassination, or, the actual object and mystery of it all?

The author

Peter Markovic is a freelance writer and publisher of audio books online. He is passionate about reading and may be found on his book discussion forum

Guest Author Mia Marlowe on Writing Historical Romance

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'd like to welcome historical romance author, Mia Marlowe to History Undressed! Today she'll be talking with us about writing historical romance and a bit about her new release (along with Connie Mason), SINS OF THE HIGHLANDER. Leave a comment and two lucky winners will receive a print copy of Ms. Marlowe's new release! (US and Canada only)

Thanks for having me here. Part of why I write historical romance isbecause it allows me to feed my history addiction. I love the research portionof my job. I always find something surprising, horrifying, or delightful. Todaywe’re in the horrifying realm because there’s a scene in SINS OF THE HIGHLANDERwhere my heroine Elspeth is going to be burned as a witch. I have a personalinterest in those who were falsely accused of consorting with the devil becausemy 13^th great-grandmother, Sarah Towne Cloyce was imprisoned duringthe Salem Witch trials. (You can read all about it on my blog: http://miamarlowe.com/blog/2010/10/a-witch-in-the-woodshed/)

Unfortunately, when one was accused of witchcraft in the 16^thcentury,there was no such thing as being held innocent till proven guilty. Confessionswere often forced with torture. And the tests devised to prove innocence usuallyresulted in the death of the accused. For example, water was considered a pureelement which would reject a wicked soul. So if a bound person was tossed intoa pond and floated, they were “rejected” by the water and therefore, proved tobe evil. The person who sank and drowned was deemed innocent. Talk about a no-win scenario.

In Sins of the Highlander,Elspeth Stewart is given a public trial since she’s the daughter of a laird,but she’s found guilty all the same. In the following excerpt, Rob MacLaren hassneaked into his enemy’s stronghold in the hope that he can free her.

Sins of the Highlanderexcerpt:

The atmosphere was more suitableto a fair than a burning. Enterprising merchants had set up stalls ringing thebailey to sell foodstuffs and other goods. Children scampered between thestalls, light-fingered urchins lifting a sweetmeat or two. Everyone seemed inhigh spirits.

But at the far end of the bailey,Rob saw the stake, already ringed with faggots. A path had been marked withropes, leading from the stake to the tallest tower at the opposite end of thecourtyard. Elspeth would walk that way to her death. His gaze swept up thetower.

A small figure stood at an unshuttered window. A woman. Her long brownhair fluttered in the breeze like a banner. The distance was too great for himto make out her features, but he knew instantly who she was.

“Oh, God. Elspeth,” he whispered.“Dinna jump, lass.”

Drummond had placed her in thetower chamber with that hope in mind, Rob was sure. He held his breath untilshe stepped away from the window and out of his sight. His relief wasshort-lived.

What was one man, or even two,against so many?

“I thought I could . . . I dinnasee what’s to be done,” Rob said, suddenly bone-weary. They’d ridden withoutstopping except to rest the horses in order to make it here in time. Now herealized what Hamish had probably known all along, but was too good a friend tosay.

It was all for naught. There was no help coming from any quarter. Allthey could do was watch Elspeth die.

But he didn’t have to let her burn. A desperate plan formed in hismind. If Rob could find a longbow and stake out a position with a clear shot,he’d have one chance to put a shaft in Elspeth’s heart before the flamesreached her. Then he’d bury his boot knife in his own chest. It would be asmall matter.

His heart would already be dead.

Hope you enjoyed that shortexcerpt. If you’d like to read more of this story, I invite you to click overto my website http://www.miamarlowe.com. While you’re there, be sure to enter my website contest. The drawing for aNEW KINDLE will be held January 30^th! I love to connect withreaders. You can also find me at http://facebook.com/miamarlowefanpageand http://twitter.com/Mia_Marlowe. Hope to see you in cyberspace!

A question for all of you: What is your favorite time period/settingfor historical romances and why?

SINS OF THE HIGHLANDER BY CONNIE MASON & MIA MARLOWE – INSTORES JANUARY 2012

Abduction

Never had Elspeth Stewartimagined her wedding would be interrupted by a dark-haired stranger charging in on a black stallion, scooping herinto his arms, and carrying her off across the wild Scottish highlands. Pressedagainst his hard chest and nestled between his trong thighs, she ought to havefeared for her life. But her captor silenced all protests with a soul-searingkiss, giving Elspeth a glimpse of the pain behind his passion—a pain only shecould ease.

Obsession

“Mad Rob” MacLaren thoughtstealing his rival’s bride-to-be was the prefect revenge. But Rob neverreckoned that this beautiful, innocent lass would awaken the part of him hethought dead and buried with his wife. Against all reason, he longed tointroduce the luscious Elspeth to the pleasures of the flesh, to make her his,and only his, forever.

With two clans against themburning for battle, they must find a way to join together—body, breath andsoul. Or both will be made to pay for the Sinsof the Highlander.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

ConnieMason is a New York Times bestselling author of more than 50 novels.She was named Storyteller of the Year in 1990 and received a Career AchievementAward from RT Book Reviews in 1994.She currently lives in Florida. MiaMarlowe is a highly acclaimed new voice in romance whose debut novelreleased in Spring 2011 from Kensington. She lives in Boston, MA. Together,they are working on a new Regency romance series for Sourcebooks Casablanca,the first of which will be in stores in early 2013. For more information,please visit http://www.conniemason.com/, http://miamarlowe.com/ and follow Mia on Twitter @Mia_Marlowe.

Historical Romance Review: His Destiny by Diana Cosby

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

I've been on a historical romance novel kick lately. This week is Highlanders. Today's review is of Diana Cosby's novel, HIS DESTINY, book 4 in the MacGruders series.

ABOUT THE BOOK...

THEIR SECRETS WILL DRAW THEM TOGETHER

As one of England's most capable mercenaries, Emma Astyn can charm an enemy and brandish a knife with unmatched finesse. Assigned to befriend Dubh Duer, an infamous Scottish rebel, she assumes the guise of innocent damsel Christina Moffat to intercept the writ he’s carrying to a traitorous bishop. But as she gains the dark hero’s confidence and realizes they share a tattered past, compassion—and passion—distract her from the task at hand…

BUT THE TRUTH MAY TEAR THEM APART

His legendary slaying of English knights has won him the name Dubh Duer, but Sir Patrik Cleary MacGruder is driven by duty and honor, not heroics. Rescuing Christina from the clutches of several such knights is a matter of obligation for the Scot. But there's something alluring about her fiery spirit, even if he has misgivings about her tragic history. Together, they'll endure a perilous journey of love and betrayal, and a harrowing fight for their lives…

Kensington/Zebra Books

ISBN-13: 9781420109924

Released in October, 2011

MY REVIEW...

I have not read any of the three previous books in this series, and I think it was probably important to do so. There were many references to the characters in the previous books, and while the author did give some clue as to their background, I was mainly left in the dark--which wouldn't have been a problem if I had read the others. So my recommendation would be to read the other books first.

I was completely psyched to pick up this book. The heroine--Emma Astyn--is a medieval kick-ass mercenary. I've never read a book where the heroine was a mercenary in this time period, and I love that idea! She did exhibit many mercenary-like moves which were impressive and I was totally rooting for her. Her background was tortured, and I enjoyed watching her grow and change as the book progressed. I did however, expect a bit more from her in the mercenary department. I would have liked to see more ass-kicking, more espionage, especially when she's in the MacGruder castle. The fact that in this time period a female mercenary was rare, she could have completely taken advantage of that, more so than she did.

I also had issues with how quickly they fell for each other. It seemed their love developed mostly from their individual emotional internal conflicts and their physical attraction. To me it felt off that these two things would bind them together rather than really getting to know one another better.

That being said, this was a great fun read. There was a lot of action. A lot of conflict. Some really hot love scenes. I loved how it all tied together, and the premise was unique. The author really tied a lot of the historical current events into the novel--and they played a big part.

I will also give the readers a bit of a hint--and this is not a spoiler--Dubh Duer in this book means "dark hero". This is hinted at in the blurb and in the book, but to some it might not be readily evident.

Special Continuation of LADY SEDUCTRESS'S BALL!

2012-01-25T09:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday!

Today is my day to post at Romancing the Past–Carina Press’s historical author blog.

I’m brining you a special treat in light of Valentine’s Day which is less than three weeks away! Hope you’ll stop by for a chance to reunite with Tristan and Olivia

Click here to visit!

Cheers,
Eliza

Weekly Video... Sort of... A Game Really

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

This week's video is not really a video, its a game!

You all know what a fan I am of Horrible Histories, well their website has GAMES!!! I played the Gong farmer, and got lots of poo splattered on me head, I did.

So, this week, I want you to play :)

Horrible Histories Gong Farmer Game

Sorry for the time suck, but you will have fun!!!

Cheers,
Eliza

Guest Author Meggan Connors on Divorce and Divorce Ranches in Nevada

2012-01-23T12:01:00.002-05:00

Today I'd like to welcome to History Undressed, guest author, Meggan Connors! Today she's here to talk with us about a fascinating topic--divorce. But not your usual run of the mill divorces... Enjoy!

Divorce and Divorce Ranches in Nevada

by Meggan Connors

In the era between 1920 and the early 1960s, divorce wasstill taboo in much of the country. But in one state—Nevada—divorce was seen asa way to bolster a flagging economy.

Thestate of Nevada is known for being a hotbed of sin, a reputation that continuestoday ("What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" anyone?). From gamblingto prostitution to divorce, it seems as if nothing sacred. Divorce first becamepopularized in the state in 1920, when Mary Pickford came here in order toobtain her divorce from her first husband, actor Owen Moore. In most of thecountry, there was a waiting period for divorce. Not so in Nevada, where theonly requirement was that one had to be a legal resident. At that time, thatmeant one had to live within the confines of Nevada for a period of six months.

In 1931,that rule would change.

In orderto bolster the economy during the Great Depression, the legislature changed theresidency requirement—one only had live in Nevada for six weeks in order to beconsidered a legal resident. That meant after six weeks, one could obtain adivorce. It was in that same year that gambling was officially legalized.

That'sright, both divorce and gambling were viewed as a means to make money.

In most parts of the country, therewere only a few reasons why a person could be granted a divorce, but in Nevada,there were nine. The most popular of these reasons was mental cruelty, whichhad a broad interpretation. For example, mental cruelty could be something asminute as "she talks to me while I'm reading," (The Divorce Seekers: A Photo Memoir of a Nevada Dude Wrangler). This, coupled with the loose residencyrequirements, led to Nevada becoming the divorce capital of the world.

Manypeople seeking divorce would come to the Reno area and rent apartments or stayin hotels, which was a boost the local economy, as it fueled jobs for full-timeresidents. At the same time, many people—mostly women—would come out and stayat so-called "divorce" or "dude" ranches. Nevada law onlyrequired that one spouse needed to be a legal Nevada resident, and therefore,the men stayed home and worked, while their soon-to-be ex-wives took a longvacation in Reno. In fact, it became so popular to come to Reno to stay in adivorce ranch that an entire lexicon sprang up around it. Women came to get"reno-vated" or to "take the six week cure."

And whena woman "went Reno," it meant that she ditched the dress, donnedLevis, and flirted, danced, and gambled her way to a quickie divorce.

So, whatdid these women do while at the divorce ranch? What was the lure of staying ata divorce ranch rather than a hotel in town? Part of it was that these ranchesoffered a "frontier" experience. One of the most famous ranches, theFlying M E, located in Washoe Valley, offered a range of activities, fromhorseback riding to fishing and swimming in the pool. A typical day at theFlying M E might include horseback riding in the morning, followed by a tripinto town for a visit with the lawyer, and then cocktails and a communaldinner. Afterwards, guests might go back into town for a night of gambling anddrinks. While ranches like the Flying ME catered to their divorcing clientele,they were not strictly for divorcees. Many people, including Hollywood stars,went to the higher-end ranches such as the Flying M E for the exclusivity,privacy, and the western experience they offered.

On theother end of the spectrum, some divorce ranches offered a more rusticexperience, with cabins that had neither running water nor toilets.

Therewas a little something for everyone seeking a divorce, with accommodations forevery budget.

And given the number of weddingchapels that sprang up in and around Reno, and the ease with which one couldobtain a marriage license, if a lady played her cards right, she could leavethe state as she was when she arrived—a married woman.

The biggest difference?

The man she was married to.

Back Cover...

When her father loses her in a poker game, Lexie Markland is sent to work in the household of Nicholas Wetherby for one year to pay off the debt. Innocent, but not naïve, she is savvy enough to know she must maintain her distance from this man, who frustrates her with his relentless teasing but whose kisses bring her to her knees. Because although she may be just another conquest to him, it’s not just her heart in jeopardy should she succumb to Nicholas’ considerable charms.

Since his brother's death almost a year before, nothing has held Nicholas’ attention for long—not women, not booze, not even an excellent hand at cards. Nothing, that is, until he meets the woman he won in a drunken night of poker. Intrigued by his prize and her chilly reserve, he makes it his mission to crack Lexie’s cool demeanor. But even as passion explodes between them, the question remains: will Nicholas be able to take the ultimate risk...and gamble on love?

MegganConnors' debut novel, The Marker, isavailable through Amazon & Barnes and Noble

Author Bio...

After discovering that her degree in English Literature/Linguistics and German didn't lend itself to gainful employment in her hometown, Meggan Connors decided to pursue a graduate degree in the very practical field of Speech Pathology (she really liked school). However, being an author was always her true calling. She now pens novels of love and loss, of high stakes and risk-takers, and is forever being surprised when her characters decide to take control of "her" book.

Meggan makes her home in the Wild West with her lawman husband, two children, and a menagerie of pets. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and the Sacramento Valley chapter. When she's not writing, she can be found playing with her kids, hiking in the mountains, or reading a book.

Visit Meggan online:

Website
Facebook

Guest Author Calisa Rhose & A Bit of History on the '60's

2012-01-20T03:00:00.000-05:00

Today on History Undressed I'd like to welcome a new guest author, Calisa Rhose. She is a wonderful sweetheart and a new voice for your reading pleasure!

Hello Eliza! Thank you for inviting me here today to talkabout my debut book, HOME. It’s a thrill to be here after working so long topublish. When I met you I was a hopeful taking your month-long editing classwith a group of awesome writers. Thanks to you we are still friends and keep intouch daily. Thanks to your class (I HIGHLY recommend Edit Your Book in a Monthwith Eliza Knight!!!) several of us have become published authors in the lastsixteen months! So when I sold it felt natural to visit the blog of the one whohelped make this day possible. You. You are Queen Eliza to the Divas. Lol

HOME is set in 1967 during the ending years of the Vietnamwar. I didn’t plan that. It’s just how the story and characters presented tome. I knew so little about that time, I was a tiny tot of 5 years at the time.So it took some research and concentration to stay in that era while I wrote.My heroine is a gypsy but I wanted her to be a modern woman (of her time) andstill have that gypsy style in her clothes. I’m not sure I completely pulledthat off, but I hope I did.

I wanted Poppy Tippen to wear a Poodle skirt in at least onescene. Was that possible, feasibly? Off to the internet I went. Research showedthat these were popular in the late 50’s and early 60’s. BUT- I was happy todiscover that YES! they still wore Poodle skirts in the mid/late 60’s thoughthey retired soon after. So when reading HOME, and I hope you will read it, youcan see if you notice the scene when Poppy wore a Poodle skirt. Hint: I didn’tcall it that in the book.

So what else could my heroine wear that revealed the times? Stirrupstretch pants were big then. Tight pants and tighter sweaters and high heels.In one scene I took one of Sandy’s famous outfits from Grease and altered it tofit my book. You might recognize that one as well. Poppy liked to dress modernso she wore the tight pants and high heeled pumps. She also wore a sexy off-the-shouldertop. Could she get away with that back then? Most girls might have beenconsidered ‘loose’ if they revealed that much skin, but don’t forget- Poppy isalso a gypsy. They wore off the shoulder peasant blouses, so I incorporated herheritage with a bit of flamboyant era style. Did it make her a bad girl?G.y.p.s.y. She already wears that stigma so what she wears won’t change of fixthat about her. But I also needed to know other facts of the year/era. Did Imention HOME was set in August? So what else happened during that year besidesin August ’67 Bonnie and Clyde released in theaters 1967? Here’s some fun factsyou may not realize.

The first heart transplant wasperformed by Dr. Christiaan Barnard in Cape Town, South Africa. ~ http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/christiaan-neethling-barnard

Mar 6th - Jimmy Hoffa enters Lewisburg FederalPrison

Apr 19th - Beatles sign a contract to staytogether for 10 years (they don't)

Photo From:

http://www.elvispresleynews.com/ElvisWeddingPhotos.html

May 1st - Priscilla Beaulieu & Elvis Presleywed in Las Vegas

May 11th - 100,000,000th US phone connected

Jun 12th - Supreme Court unanimously ends lawsagainst interracial marriages

Jun 27th - The world's first ATM is installed inEnfield, London.

Jul17th – The Monkees perform at Forest Hills, NY. Jimi Hendrixis opening act

Jul 22nd - Jimi Hendrix quits as opening act ofthe Monkees' tour

Aug3rd - 45,000 more US soldiers sent to Vietnam

~ http://www.historyorb.com/events/date/1967

It was also in 1967, Oct 21^st- that seventythousand gathered at the Washington DC Moratorium for the infamous Vietnam warprotest demonstration. I didn’t check, but that may have been the largest groupto gather for one cause, in one location in the USA in history. Though therewere other demonstrations during the war, that one is most remembered andprotestors traveled from all over to attend.

~ http://www.jofreeman.com/photos/Pentagon67.html#photos

*~*~*~*

BLURB:

What could a gypsy and a Vietnamveteran have in common?

Silvertown’s outcast, Poppy Tippen,has loved football hero Sam “The Force” Callahan forever. But he never seemedto know she was alive. Now he’s home from the war and she suddenly findsherself comforting him from the demons of “that damn war.” Is his attentionmerely an escape from the haunting nightmares? Or does she hold the interest ofthe only man she’s ever truly loved?

Sam Callahan’s only solace from thewar nightmares wrecking his life comes in the unlikely form of a gypsy girlwith stigmas of her own. He’s known Poppy his entire life, but there’ssomething different about her now. Something special he desperately wants tohold on to. Can he convince her she’s the only thing he needs to put the pastbehind him?

Get your copy of HOME at TheWild Rose Press and on Amazon.

Small-town country girl Calisa Rhose lives in asemi-remote area of Oklahoma with her husband, five dogs, one cat and onehorse. All of her three daughters and their families live within throwingdistance. She’s a member of RWA and the local chapter OKRWA. She intends tonurture and continue to grow as an author with the help of her family andsupporters.

Find Calisa at her website/blog http://calisarhose.wordpress.com

On twitter @Calisa_Rhose and Facebook @Calisa Rhose

She loves to hear from readers so drop her a line at calisa.rhose@gmail.com

Time Travel Fun! By Terry Spear

2012-01-18T03:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to History Undressed, guest author Terry Spear! Today, she's talking about one of my favorite genres: Time Travel. And she's taking us on an adventure! I hope you enjoy her post as much as I did! On lucky commenter (USA Only) will win a copy of Ms. Spear's book, A GHOST OF A CHANCE AT LOVE.

Time Travel Fun!

By Terry Spear

So you wantto time travel back to the 1870’s? Good for you. Let’s go!

Wait! First,there are rules. No taking back stuff that wasn’t made in the earlier time. Youdon’t want to upset the known world back then, do you?

Years agowhen games were first being made for the computer, I played a neat time travelgame where the player could take back items, like a comb, that had been made inancient times. But anything that was a more recent development, the playerwould lose if she took it with her on the journey. It was amazing to me howearly some items had been made, and how recent others were.

So when wetake this trip back to Texas in the 1870’s, remember this:

No cellphones, no laptops, no flip flops or T-shirts. No pants, no shorts, no bikinisor halter tops either. Hide those pierced ears, or any other piercings youmight have! Tattoos are out. Unless you’re a pirate. No bras, no pantyhose, no silkypanties either.

Still withme?

It’s hot inTexas and what do we have to wear?

Longdresses, petticoats, corsets, and pantaloons, short boots and stockings.

Are youstill coming?

Rememberyour parasol, a fan, and fringed purse for the ride.

Don’t wearmuch makeup or you might be taken for a lady of ill repute.

And forgoodness sakes, if you’re a grown woman, not a little girl, your dress mustcover your ankles and your hair must be UP. Very important.

Why? Longhair and bare ankles are just too sexy for men to witness without them…gettingideas.

Yeah, Iknow, I totally agree how silly this sounds, but I didn’t make the rules!

So we’vepicked out some authentic looking clothes, have our hair up, no nail polish,and makeup is non-existent, to a barely-there look, and we’re ready to go.Right?

Wait!Money!!! Even though bartering was an accepted practice, we definitely don’thave anything to barter with, ahem, that we would be willing to barter with, somoney can help. No credit cards, debit cards or writing checks either.Although, sure, checks were written back then, but they wouldn’t look like OURchecks! Did you know that the routing number on checks came into existent aftera man stole so many payroll checks and then after they caught him, he helpedthe banking institution to stop people like him from robbing companies blind bycoming up with the routing number?

So we’llhave to find some old money to tide us over. Which can get pretty costly, butwe’re game, right?

The money’stucked into our fringed purse…wait, I know it’s already hot out, but we have towear some gloves, and we’re off. Well, no, we need smelling salts for whenwe’re overcome from the heat, the clothes, and the corsets binding us! Thenwe’re ready!

The greatpart in going to the past is that there are more men out here in the west whoare dying to have themselves a woman.

I won’t saywhether they’re a great catch themselves, or how hardy you have to be to lastout here, or how much fun you might really have…

Remember,we’re here just to witness how things were done in the old west—not like themovie versions, and then, well, if we can wrangle some hot guy who stilltreated a woman like a woman and wanted to bring him with us into the future,that might work!

But what ifyou decided you liked the old way of life, found the rancher of your dreams, afamily you could love, and wanted to stay? That could work too! And you mighteven slip some of those lacy bras and sexy silky panties under your long gownsfor when you’re alone with your man.

So anyonegame?

Thanks somuch, Eliza, for having me, and hope everyone had fun dropping by to see whattime travel might be like to the 1870’s in a small western town in Texas!

Terry Spear

“Giving newmeaning to the term alpha male where fantasy IS reality.”

A Ghost of a Chance at Love

Lisa Welsh only wishes to leave a messy divorce behind for a couple of days stay in Salado, Texas but wakes to nightmares and a cowboy in her bed, and she has no earthly idea how he got there. But the situation gets worse when she learns she's now living in 19th Century Salado. Even more worrisome is the tall dark stranger, and everyone else in town believes she's some woman named Josephine Rogers who is supposed to be dead. Jack Stanton can't believe the clerk gave him an occupied room at the Shady Villa Inn, but worse, he was ready to ravage the woman in that bed-until he realized his mistake. Now the woman he thinks is Josephine claims to be some other woman-and though he could never abide by Josephine's fickle ways, this Lisa Welsh intrigues him like no other. Still, if she isn't Josephine, he figures he best help her find her way back to where she really belongs no matter how much he wants to keep her with him. Together, Lisa and Jack must solve the mysteries and face the troubles in their worlds or they will never be free to share the love that binds them across the ages.

Buy at Amazon

Buy at Barnes and Noble

About the Author...

Award-winning author of urban fantasy and medieval historical romantic suspense, HEART OF THE WOLF named in Publishers Weekly's BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR, NOR Reader Choice for BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE.

Terry Spear also writes true stories for adult and young adult audiences. She's a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves and has an MBA from Monmouth University and a Bachelors in Business and Distinguished Military Graduate of West Texas A & M. She also creates award-winning teddy bears, Wilde & Woolly Bears, to include personalized bears designed to commemorate authors' books. When she's not writing or making bears, she's teaching online writing courses.

www.facebook.com/terry.spear

www.terryspear.com

www.myspace.com/terryspear

http://terry-spear.blogspot.com/

http://twitter.com/#!/TerrySpear

Weekly Video: Palermo's Mass Grave

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

A fascinating video from History Channel on Palermo's Mass Grave!

Enjoy!

Lucinda Brant Giveaway!

2012-01-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Today is lucky Monday! One commenter today will win the Roxton Series ebook bundle from Georgian romance author, Lucinda Brant! I love all of these books. Ms. Brant has a special way about her writing. Her characters are unique, fun, interesting, and her writing not only shows her depth and grasp of history, but is sensually sweet and will leave you feeling warm and satisfied!

The bundle includes:

Noble Satyr

Book One

France and England in the age of hedonism and enlightenment.

A green-eyed beauty is abandoned at the court of Versailles.

The predatory Comte de Salvan plots her seduction. An all-powerful adversary snatches her to safety. But is he noble savior or a satyr most despicable?

Midnight Marriage
Book Two

Twelve-year-old Deborah is married off atmidnight to sixteen-year-old Julian, the handsome but volatile heir to theRoxton Dukedom, who then disappears from her life. Nine years later, Julianreturns incognito to consummate his marriage before Deborah is seduced intobigamous wedlock with his nemesis half-brother. When Deb rescues and falls inlove with the wounded duelist Julian Hesham, she does not suspect the strangerwith the emerald green eyes to be the Marquis of Alston and her husband. Afterthe honeymoon Deb discovers the appalling truth and that the Marquis of Alstonis wanted by French authorities for seducing the innocent daughter of aFarmer-General. Can the handsome stranger with whom Deb spent ten wonderfulweeks truly be one and the same as the nobleman Polite Society has branded arakehell? Will Deborah forgive Julian’s cruel deception?

Can their marriagesurvive beyond seduction?

Autumn Duchess
Book Three

A beautiful duchess mourns for her beloved.
A sun-bronzed merchant returns to claim a birthright.
Disparate souls in need of love and renewal.
Paths cross and the journey begins...

Set in Hampshire, England 1777, this is the story of Antonia, DowagerDuchess of Roxton, and how she emerges from utter despair after the death ofher husband and soul mate to unexpectedly find love again.

Visit Lucinda at her website.
Follow her on Facebook.
Follow her on Twitter.

Leave a comment with your email address in order to be entered to win! The drawing will take place on Friday!

Historical Fiction Deal -- today only!

2012-01-12T10:18:00.001-05:00

Today's daily deal at Amazin is HIS LAST DUCHESS by Gabrielle Kimm! Click here to purchase.

That’s my last duchess painted on the wall…

Seduced by the hot sun and blinding passions of Renaissance Italy, sixteen-year-old Lucrezia de’ Medici sees a gilded life stretching ahead. Her wealthy new husband handpicked her to be his bride, and his great castle in Ferrara will be her playground. But Alfonso d’Este, Duke of Ferrara quickly proves to be just as dangerous and mysterious as he is dark and handsome, and the stone walls of the castle seem to trap Lucrezia like a prison.

Only the duke’s lover Francesca seems able to tame his increasing fury, as his desperate need to produce an heir drives him deep into precarious obsession. With her head full of heartbroken dreams, Lucrezia flees from him down a dangerous path that may cost her everything.

Step into the elegant world of the Robert Browning poem “My Last Duchess,” as imagined by Gabrielle Kimm, where she brings to life the passions and people of sixteenth-century Tuscany and Ferrara. It is a chilling story of forbidden love and dark decadence that will haunt you.

“A saucy account of Lucrezia de’ Medici’s ill-fated marriage, inspired by Robert Browning’s poem “My Last Duchess.”

- Kirkus

“Kimm neatly ties up all the loose ends while cleverly setting the stage for a spin-off. Poetry enthusiasts will be intrigued and historical fiction fans will appreciate the authentic Renaissance-era detailing.”

-Booklist

“This strong first novel is marked by well-developed, memorable protagonists and a pacing that quickens and builds readers' anxiety as the story progresses.”

- Library Journal

Weekly Video: Top Shot: Primitive Weapons

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

I thought this week I'd bring to you a bit of history. This is TOP SHOT, if you've ever watched it, its a show on History Channel where contestants have to use varying weapons and hit their marks to win. This clip is from the episode where primitive weapons were used. It gives you an idea of what weapons were used, how they were used and how difficult it was to actually master these weapons.

Enjoy!

Historical Romance Review: Tempting the Highlander by Michele Sinclair

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have wanted for some to read Michele Sinclair's books, and so when TEMPTING THE HIGHLANDER, arrived on my doorstep I was thrilled. This was the first book I read in the McTiernays series, but I didn't feel lost. If anything I want to go back and get the rest so I can read them all. TEMPTING THE HIGHLANDER was a fun-filled adventure of a book! I loved the way Ms. Sinclair had each character playing off of how they thought the other character's felt or what they thought the other characters' desired. With so many characters messing with each other, it was hard to see how the ones who loved each other would get together, and I enjoyed watching the story unfold right up to the very end.

ABOUT THE BOOK...

ItBegins As A Ploy

When Raelynd Schellden and her sister are caught inthe stables with the notorious McTiernay twins, her father sees not scandal, butopportunity. The future of his clan is uncertain, and a double engagement—evenunder false pretenses— will lend security to his people and protect his beloveddaughters from power-mad fools.

And Becomes A Pleasure

But Raelynd's designated intended interests her farless than his quietly powerful brother Crevan, a man born to lead. Though boundby honor and committed to his sworn duty, Crevan cannot resist a taste ofRaelynd's crimson lips when offered—and then another and another—until theunlikely couple is entangled in both a public deception and each other'shearts.

Released in September, 2011 w/Kensington Zebra Books
ISBN-10: 1420108565
ISBN-13: 978-1420108569 (available in print and ebook)

MY REVIEW...

I knew of Ms. Sinclair, and respected her, long before I read any of her books. The reason being, she has a fantastic list of research links and resources on her website (www.michelesinclair.com).

With so many characters (and we get to see inside their heads), I was concerned that TEMPTING THE HIGHLANDER was going to get confusing for me. I don't mind multiple POVs or even the use of secondary character POV. But this book had nearly a dozen. Never fear! It was done well, so I was never confused. Ultimately, I think what made it so easy for Ms. Sinclair to transition us from one character to the next was how indivual and unique each character was. They were truly fleshed out with prominent GMCs, prominent and different personalities and traits, as well as varying faults (some of which were used humorously in the plot, and which brought some characters with similar faults closer together!) With this story, despite so many POVs, it is obvious that Crevan and Raelynd are the main H/H. When they are together--even when they are arguing--the sparks nearly fly off the page. Their connection is intense, highly sensual, and deep rooted.

Also of note, I really enjoyed that Cyric was not as bad as they thought he would be. That made this Scottish romance, even better. Readers love to see lots of people get their happy ending. I only wish Craig and Meriel could have gotten together. They got along so well. Perhaps Meriel will end up being in another story? We watched her weaknesses become revealed, and I thought she might take more of an appreciation for her sister and how hard she worked, but in the end, I didn't feel like she did. She was glad to go back to her old ways and have her sister do the work for her.

I have not read a book in awhile that so deeply explored the human condition and our need to protect others with what we think is best for them, instead of really knowing for sure. Great job!

One thing I would have liked to see was more light shone on the fact that Crevan did not sutter when speaking to Raelynd and even in the case when he spoke to her in front of others. Stuttering is often overcome when a person feels very at ease, comfortable and in control. I would have liked to see this explored more.

I enjoyed this book so much, that I am disappointed I didn't read her work sooner! I highly recommend TEMPTING THE HIGHLANDER, and Michele Sinclair as an author. She knows how to weave in romance, history, and truly how to play with a character's head. Her characters are real, vibrant and with faults. They are incredible faults too, which we have to watch them grow and struggle with--but in the end she redeems them, and an HEA is attained. And! I'm hoping Conan's story is coming up next, because I have GOT to see how that turns out!

Historial Romance Review: Autumn Duchess by Lucinda Brant

2012-01-05T21:00:00.000-05:00

I have always enjoyed reading Lucinda Brant's Georgian romances, and her newest release AUTUMN DUCHESS was no exception! Brant's books are filled with complex, unique characters that jump off the pages and which readers fall in love with. Her plots are fun, vibrant, filled with humor, and sensuality. I would highly recommend her books to all!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Roxton Series Book 3
Sequel to Noble Satyrand MidnightMarriage

A beautiful duchess mourns for her beloved.
A sun-bronzed merchant returns to claim a birthright.
Disparate souls in need of love and renewal.
Paths cross and the journey begins...

Setin Hampshire, England 1777, this is the story of Antonia, Dowager Duchess ofRoxton, and how she emerges from utter despair after the death of her husbandand soul mate to unexpectedly find love again.

Deluxe Trade Paperback ISBN 978-0-9872430-3-4 (out soon)
Hardcover ISBN (out soon)
Ebook ISBN 978-0-9808013-5-4
Kindle ASIN B005GLFCX8

MY REVIEW:

I loved that in this book, the hero and heroine are both widows, and have both previously experienced love and loss. Also, the hero, is a wealthy merchant not a noble lord, although he has ties to aristocracy. It brings to readers a different story than your typical virgin bride, debonaire lord, romance.

The heroine, Antonia, is the Dowager Duchess of Roxton. She has been in mourning for several years, heart broken over the loss of her husband. Her adult son--the new Duke--is not sympothetic to her plight, and I felt bad for her that she should be treated that way by him. He isn't trying to be mean or disrespectful to his mother, quite the opposite, he is trying to help her and his family, but for Antonia, that is not what she needs.

She finds what she needs in the brusque, straight forward, unconventional hero, Jonathan, who actually comes to introduce himself to her, not only because she is enchanting, but because he needs something from her. The lands and house she inhabits are actually rightfully his, stolen by a previous Duke of Roxton some hundred years or so before.

But neither of them counted on the intense attraction that stems between them--even if they both try to fight it.

As always, Ms. Brant has done her research and it shows. She brings polite society to life--and throws it on its rear too! I love how different these characters were and how they thwarted convention.

A great read, you won't want to put down!!!

Visit History Undressed on January 16th! I am hosting an ebook bundle giveaway of Ms. Brant's books, including AUTUMN DUCHESS.

Weekly Video: Horrible Histories' Strange Tudor Laws

2012-01-05T09:24:00.002-05:00

It's that time again! Another BBC Horrible Histories video. This week I've posted--Strange Tudor Laws. Quite hilarious!!! Enjoy!

A Passion for History by Anna Markland

2012-01-03T08:51:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2012! Today on History Undressed, we have a new guest author, Anna Markland, talking about her passion for history. Also, she will be giving away a her new novel, CONQUERING PASSION to one lucky commenter.

A Passion for History

Several years ago, I was teaching a seminar on “How to Write your Own Life Story”. A participant mentioned that the 1891 census of England had recently been made available on line at a website called ancestry.com. Later that evening I thought it might be interesting to look for my grandparents, about whom I knew very little, having only ever met one of them. That decision marked the end of ‘spare time’ in my life. I became completely addicted to the pursuit of my roots, and since that day have had a continuous subscription to the ancestry.com website. I have traced my own family roots back many generations as well as those of my children’s spouses, and even perfect strangers!

Some family lines are easy to trace, others are nigh on impossible. But my journey into history instilled in me an urgent need to pass on the stories of my English heritage to my Canadian born children. This led to the publication of genealogical histories, including Lancashire Heritage (yes, I’m a Lancashire Lass), Celtic Roots, and From Highland, Lowland and Prairie.

Slowly, a desire grew within me to write historical love stories, inspired in part by my cousin, who has been an award-winning romance author for many years. She began her career in earnest after the death of her mother, and, coincidentally, it was the death of my father in August 2010 that provided the spark for my plunge into the world of actually publishing my work.

I digress here—my dad was a typical Lancashire lad, a man who blushed if you spoke the word ‘sex’. Perhaps I wouldn’t have felt comfortable publishing some of my work when he was alive. Who knows? I don’t want to give the impression I am in any way apologetic for what I write about my characters’ love lives. I’m very proud of my writing.

And my books have turned out to be family histories—or should I say the history of one family—The Montbryces—nobles from eleventh century Normandy, who are caught up in the perilous and turbulent events of the Norman Conquest and its aftermath. The first book in The Montbryce Legacy series, Conquering Passion is now available in various digital formats on Smashwords. It is the story of Count Rambaud de Montbryce and Mabelle de Valtesse, an unlikely couple—a chauvinistic Norman nobleman and an independent minded refugee, who together forge the foundation of a powerful dynasty.

A Man of Value is the sequel, about Ram’s illegitimate son, Caedmon Brice Woolgar, who always believed his father was a Saxon martyr of the Battle of Hastings. Will his struggle to come to terms with the new found knowledge of his bastardy destroy his love for Agneta Kirkthwaite?

Bastardy is, of course, something the genealogical researcher cannot avoid. The pages of parish registers are full of entries such as base born child, natural child, and bastard. On the marriage certificate of one of my great, great grandfathers, you can plainly see the word illegitimate written in the space designated for Father’s Name.

If Love Dares Enough, is the third book in the series. Ram’s youngest brother Hugh de Montbryce, is haunted by a deep fear, engendered by his experiences at the Battle of Hastings, that violence arouses him. He avoids women, but is drawn into the life of a Saxon noblewoman, Lady Devona Melton, a victim of abuse at the hands of her Norman husband. Can Hugh overcome his demons and the political and religious implications of abducting the wife of a Norman nobleman?

I have to admit to being a Pollyanna—a hopeless romantic. My books are What If stories. What if there was a Norman Marcher Earl who was more intent on diplomacy than brutality, an eleventh century nobleman in love with his wife? (It’s the “Montbryce Curse” for the men to be in love with the women they marry!) What if the illegitimate son of a Norman could make his bastardy his greatest strength, and sire a powerful family in his own right, based on two great peoples, Saxon and Norman.

I haven’t yet been able to trace my own family as far back as the Norman Conquest, but in some ways, the Montbryces have become my family. I’m almost as caught up in their lives as I am in my own! I’ve used the Legacy Genealogical Software program to create an extensive family tree for them, and have included in it the families who were the stewards of the Montbryce castles for several generations, the Bonhommes and the Cormants. I have a wikispaces page designed to keep track of them all, so that when I get to my fiftieth book, I can look back and sort out who was who! Even my pen name, Anna Markland, belonged to my great, great aunt, who died at fifteen, too young to know the pain and pleasure of falling in love and marrying.

www.facebook.com/conqueringpassion

Twitter @annamarkland

Anna's Blog: Get Intimate with History

http://montbryce-legacy.wikispaces.com/

Conquering Passion © Anna Markland 2011

A Man of Value © Anna Markland 2011

If Love Dares Enough © Anna Markland 2011

The Joys of a Victorian Christmas by Tara Kingston

2011-12-22T08:44:00.002-05:00

Welcome back to History Undressed, guest author and my good friend, Tara Kingston! (Okay, and I must plug this! Tara and I have an anthology releasing in print together on January 9th! PIRATE'S PAST has her tale, Claimed by the Captain and my tale, A Pirate's Bounty!) Today Tara's giving us a taste of Christmas during the Victorian era. Leave a comment for your chance to win an ecopy of CLAIMED BY THE CAPTAIN! Happy Holidays!

TheJoys of a Victorian Christmas

TaraKingston

Trimming the Christmastree is a favorite tradition in my family. Every year, I relish the chance toreflect on cherished memories triggered by ornaments that have a sentimentalplace in my heart and add to my ornament collection with new and beautiful acquisitionsthat will someday become treasured favorites. I can’t imagine Christmas withouta beautiful tree. Without the influence of the Victorians, decorated Christmastrees as well as many other holiday favorites might never have become beloved traditions.

Victorian Christmastraditions were centered around the family. Of these enduring celebrations,perhaps the most beloved is the Christmas tree. Queen Victoria’s husband, PrinceAlbert, brought the custom of adecorated Christmas tree from his German homeland. Not long after his marriageto Victoria, Prince Albert had the first Christmas tree displayed in WindsorCastle in 1841. Several years later, the IllustratedLondon News published a drawing of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and theirchildren celebrating the holiday with a Christmas tree, and soon thereafter,families throughout England boasted a decorated tree during the Christmasseason.

Many other popularChristmas traditions became popular during Victoria’s reign. Some of theseinclude:

* Christmas Cards ~ thecombination of the halfpenny postage rate, which allowed a letter or card to bemailed throughout England inexpensively, and the advances in affordable colorprinting technology brought Christmas cards to popularity. By 1880, more thaneleven million cards were produced each year.

* Exchanging Christmas Presents~ The giving of small gifts at New Year’s shifted to become a central part ofthe Victorian holiday tradition. Gifts were given and placed under the tree inanticipation of the holiday.

* Christmas Carols ~ Yetanother Victorian tradition, the singing of favorite holiday songs (which wereat the time new and popular hits) to mark the holiday season emerged duringthis era, as did the custom of traveling in groups from house to house tojoyously sing Christmas carols.

* Christmas Vacation ~During the Victorian era, middle class families began the tradition of takingtime off from work to spend with their families.

* Mistletoe ~ Who canresist a kiss beneath the mistletoe? This girl certainly can’t! What a lovelyholiday tradition!

These are just a few ofthe more popular Victorian holiday traditions that continue to endure today. Inthe spirit of gift giving, I’ll be giving away a copy of Claimed by the Captain to one commenter. Simply tell us whichholiday tradition is your favorite and why…it does NOT need to be one of thesefive. Many more Victorian traditions remain popular favorites. What are some ofyour favorite traditions?

I’d also love yourfriendship this holiday season. You can find me on Facebookand Twitter,or stop by my blogor webpage.

Merry Christmas! May youhave a wonderful holiday season!

A Scottish Christmas by Sky Purrington

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'm excited to welcome guest author Sky Purrington to History Undresed! She has a special holiday treat for us--a bit of history on Christmas in Scotland. Enjoy and happy holidays!

A Scottish Christmas

by Sky Purrington

Hi Everyone! I’m thrilled to be visiting ElizaKnight’s, History Undressed blog. Ihope that everyone is enjoying their holiday season so far. It’s hard tobelieve that Santa will be coming down the ol’ chimney in a few short days.

For those of you unfamiliar, I write a cross genreof paranormal and fantasy romance. While I have titles covering everything fromvampires to ghost hunters, by far my favorite works include those written abouttime-traveling Highlanders. Like Eliza, I’m crazy about history, especiallyScottish history. I suppose that’s why I can’t sit still in one time period.

Before I go any further I’d like to host a Christmascontest. One lucky commenter will win an E-bundle of my ‘The MacLomain Series’ This includes one short story and three fullnovels. Prize will be either offered in E-book fashion or can be ‘gifted’straight to your Amazon Kindle.

I thought for this visit to keep in Yuletide formand share some age old Scottish Christmas history and traditions. When I did alittle extra research for this blog post I discovered something interesting,and a little sad.

Christmas was banned in Scotland for FOUR HUNDREDyears!

Accordingto Rampant Scotland.com , “After the Church Reformation in the 16th century,the celebration of Christmas was frowned on by the Kirk, which regarded it as a"Popish festival". Mass was banned in Scotland at that time and"Christmas" or "Christ's Mass" was included in that. Thereare records of charges being brought against people for keeping"Yule" as it was called in Scotland. Amazingly, this dour,joy-crushing attitude lasted for 400 years. Until the 1960s, Christmas Day wasa normal working day for most people in Scotland.”

Oh,religion does have a way of changing the rules on occasion, doesn’t it? In theMacLomain Series, my Highlanders accept both the old pagan ways as well asembrace the new God so there’s no stress in my medieval clan! Then again,they’re wizards. I suppose magic helps smooth things out. *winks*

Solet’s talk first about pre-400 years of no Christmas. Those were theglorious days when the Yuletide celebrations lasted from December 25^thto January 6^th. The Scots word "Yule" comes from the OldNorse "jól, which was a midwinter pagan celebration of the winter solstice.

Believe it or not, the celebrations are thedirect results of the Vikings when they first came to Scotland. They were allabout celebrating conquest and plunder. However, their original version of thismid-winter festival lasted a whopping twenty-four days. Yep, those boys knewhow to party! Naturally, the overindulgence launched a mammoth feast on the eveof Yule.

According to Friends of Scotland.gov.uk, “TheVikings stuffed their faces with vast quantities of food and drink after whichthey stumbled off into the winter night to light a huge bonfire in the goddess’honour. Today, fire and light plays a major part in Yule celebrations in manyareas of Scotland from Biggar to Shetland.

When William of Normandy conquered England in 1066 the English PrincessMargaret fled north and was shipwrecked on the Scottish coast. Her Christianinfluence helped turn the previously pagan Yuletide season into a celebrationof the birth of Jesus Christ.”

Some fun facts…

~Many ancient superstitions and rites heldsignificance for Scots during the Middle Ages. For example, decorating houseswith evergreen trees and mistletoe. Our modern trees are newer versions of thisancient pagan idea that the evergreen tree represented a celebration of therenewal of life, while Celtic peoples long considered mistletoe to have magicpowers. It was said to have the ability to heal wounds and increase fertility.

~InScotland a sprig of mistletoe continues to be hung from ceilings and in doorwaysto bring luck and ward off evil spirits. Kisses are welcome too!

~Christmascards are said to have been invented in Edinburgh, Scotland in themid-nineteenth century.

Thehistory of Christmas in Scotland is rich and closely tied with many of the traditionsof England, especially in more modern times. But some are unique to Scotland.Many households decorate their evergreen (particularly holly) with strips oftheir tartan. Also, it’s a ‘must’ to have a short bread on your holiday table,whether it be Scottish Black Pun, Dundee Cake, Scottish Shortbread (bannock) orMaisie Magennis Dumpling.

Ihope you enjoyed learning more about Scotland at Christmas, HistoryUndressed. Though Christmas wasn’t directly at the heart of it, I spentseveral years researching and writing about Scotland. To this day, no countryhas touched my heart like she has. If you enjoy Scottish time-travel, my ‘TheMacLomain Series’ is currently being offered at .99 CENTS PER NOVEL for alimited time. Though The King’s Druidess (shorter tale) leads out thepack, I thought to share the blurb from Fate’s Monolith (The MacLomainSeries- Book 1).

Wishingyou all a very Happy Holiday Season!

BestRegards,

Sky

Abit about Fate’s Monolith…

AriannaBroun, a Scottish born colonial American has been haunted by the reoccurringdream of a phantom Scottish warrior. Her infatuation with the dream intensifiesuntil All Hallows' Eve, when the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest.After several bizarre encounters she runs to her safe haven deep in the woods.When dawn comes too early, Arianna is eager to go home. But fate has otherplans.

LairdIain MacLomain has long awaited the arrival of his promised bride. She claimsto not be the woman intended for him but she fits the description given him ofher, all fire and defiance. That defiance will end up costing them everythingand rips them apart. However, a Scottish Chieftain with magic at his disposalis capable of most anything. Will he hold Arianna in his arms again or is shelost to him forever? Only time will tell.

TheMacLomain Series is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Learnmore about Sky Purington at her Website

LADY SEDUCTRESS'S BALL Release Day and Blog Postings

2011-12-19T09:13:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday! Less than a week until Christmas! But one of my gifts has come early, and that is the release of my novella, LADY SEDUTRESS’S BALL, a Regency erotic romance, with Carina Press!

In celebration of my release today, I’m blogging at Fresh Fiction on how I think cookies are a lot like books J Stop by and visit! (and enter for a chance to win a copy of LADY SEDUCTRESS’S BALL!) http://freshfiction.com/page.php?id=3844 And I will be blogging at several other places this week as well!

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Romancing the Book

Thursday:

Victoria Gray Romance

Lots of chances to win prizes!

Blurb:

Invitation to Pleasure

As the wife of the elderly Earl of March, Olivia Covington has never known the intimacies of the bedroom. Though her curiosity is piqued by the shocking whispers of society ladies, she is too wary of causing scandal to indulge in an affair. But Tristan Knightley, Earl of Newcastle, tempts her to throw off propriety.

Tristan wants Olivia for his own, and has sworn off all others until he can rid himself of the obsession. He is sure once he has a taste, he will tire of her, and can return to his rakish existence. Unable to wait to have her in his bed, he invites her for a tryst at Lady Seductress's Ball...

24,000 words

LADY SEDUCTRESS’S BALL has already gotten great reviews! Click here to read 9 reviews, averaging 4/5 Stars: http://bit.ly/uslJNe

Carina Buy Link: http://bit.ly/rs3v8f ($2.69)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/uNxWQl ($2.99)
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/sHY6z1 ($2.99)
Apple: http://bit.ly/uGoIaJ ($2.99)

Have a Nook? Need a Cheap/Free Read?

2011-12-16T10:51:00.000-05:00

Do you have a Nook? Looking for a book to read? An awesome new website featuring daily deals--cheap reads, free reads and even books to splurge on! Got quite a few historicals up there this week! Check it out! http://www.nooklovers.com

Cheers,
Eliza

Searching for Camelot in the Dark Ages by Persia Woolley

2011-12-15T09:57:00.002-05:00

Today I am pleased to introduce you to historical author, Persia Woolley, author of the Guinevere Triology, which Sourcebooks Landmark has re-issued (originally written in the 1980's). Leave a comment to win a paperback copy of Guinevere, the Legend in Autumn ! (1 winner/US & Canada only) Enjoy!

SEARCHINGFOR CAMELOT IN THE DARK AGES BRITAIN

by Persia Woolley

What apleasure it is to write for the History Undressed readers!

When I setout to do a realistic, historically accurate version of Camelot, told in firstperson by Guinevere, I figured it would mean about six months of research andsix of writing. My first two books--both non-fiction--had taken that long so Ithought a novel would also. Instead I spent 11 years researching and writing theGuinevere Trilogy and loved every moment of it.

It began in1980 with a lot of reading and included four trips to Britain, all of themmanaged on a shoestring. My itinerary was a blend of where I needed to go forthe story and how far away the nearest hostel was. Whenever possible thedifferent stories are set in their legendary domains--Gawain goes into theWirral to meet his fate with the Green Man and Igraine has her life-changingencounter with Uther at Tintagel. But where stories could not be geographicallyplaced I spread them out all over Britain as Arthur and Gwen would have maderegular progresses throughout the realm, cementing alliances, checking cropsand assessing defenses.

My longesttrip lasted four weeks and extended from London up to Hadrian's Wall then slowlydown to Old Sarum. It was at that ancient chalk hillfort that a widow whowalked her dog there twice a day pointed out that in Gwen's time there wouldn'thave been a single strand of ivy allowed to grow on the steep sides of thebank-and-ditch, lest it give marauders a handhold for launching an attack. As aresult the white chalk mound would have been visible for many miles, rising up outof the plain. That description and setting was reason enough for me to move thewedding from Winchester to Sarum.

Theshortest trip came after I'd spent a week on a journalists junket betweenGlasgow and Edinburgh. We were wined and dined every night but as mycompatriots were winging back to the States I was extending my ticket foranother week, trading my professional clothes for wool pants and parka andrunning for the last bus to Carlisle in the rain!

On thosetrips my wardrobe was strictly functional (pants, shirt and sweater) as everythinghad fit in my backpack. Hostels are only open at night, so my days were spentclimbing over Roman ruins and Celtic hillforts, poking about small museums orworking my way along Hadrian's Wall. The discovery of a hermit's cave nearWarkworth Castle fit so well with Lance's spiritual nature, it was logical tomake that charming spot Joyous Gard.

The peoplewere wonderfully friendly, and I'm much indebted to the cleaning lady who talkedabout a Neolithic site near Threlkeld Knotts where people occasionally lived intothe Dark Ages. Or the bus driver who explained that what I was looking for onthe River Eden could be found down the path behind the farm we were just comingup to. He let me off with the understanding that when he came back in 45minutes he'd pick me up again if he could see me coming toward the road;otherwise I'd have to hike back to the nearest town on my own.

By the end ofthe project I had hauled or sent home roughly 1,000 books, maps, pamphlets andhandouts from museums that covered everything from flora and fauna to how tohang wild game, most of which requires a number of days to become edible byhumans. Added to that were all the books bought here in the States, often fromobscure catalogs which carried very scholarly texts on arcane subjects.

Probably themost unique publication in my bedside reading was the thesis of a studenttracing the patterns of taxation by both the Romans and the Saxons on thewagons carrying salt to the interior of the island. The student reasoned thatif the people in 650 A.D. had the same taxation hubs as those in 400 A.D. onecould surmise that the routes had been at least partially open through theintervening years.

From thereit was an easy step to having Arthur and Gwen discuss how to get the locals tokeep the roads cleared in return for the safe delivery of the salt they needed.

I sometimesjoke that I'm a frustrated architect who only writes novels because I can makea living at it. That is true as far as it goes, though the living is often asmuch feathers as fowl. But the lure of houses, barns, forts, holy places and townlayouts inevitably creeps into my work.

It's one ofthe reasons I made my Gwen a northern Celt who has to go south to marry thatking, whether she wants to or not. Not only would Arthur have picked a bridefrom among the tribes whose rebellion he'd crushed, I as the author wanted herto be an outsider so she sees everything with fresh eyes and notes it for thereader.

Coming from the north she would have grown up with wattle-and-daub round houses as well as crannogs(houses built over water) on lakes in southern Scotland. And she would have heardabout the brochs of Gawain's home turf. The deserted Roman buildings would havebeen usable and often their locations are phenomenal, such as those atRavenglass or Hardknott Pass.

Evidence ofthese structures is generally found in archaeological reports and sometimes onthe Ordinance Survey maps of Britain. Whenever possible I went to sites that werebeing developed by experimental archaeologists, such as Butser Farm inHampshire which had an example of the Celtic roundhouse. I see on the net thatit's been moved, but am sure wherever it is, there are birds still nesting inits thatch.

There wasalso the Saxon settlement of West Stowe. I well remember that gray and drippingday, and expensive cab fare--without a car one has to hire a fellow for severalhours so he will wait and bring you back to public transportation. Compared tothe ease with which one can call both places up on computers nowadays, I can'thelp feeling both primitive and antiquated! But I got to sit in thosebuildings, to watch the way the shadows fell and stare at the ceilings, theeaves, the trenches dug to drain the rain away...you just can't do that on yourcomputer!

Now, withGoogle Earth and Wikipedia and every town's tourist board touting their localattractions, it feels as if one might do the research without ever leavinghome. But nothing can replace actually standing where your characters did, bethat on the wall around Chester or the headland of Tintagel or the top of theTor at Glastonbury. To smell that wind, to squint into that sunset, to watch aflock of starlings bank and sweep across that sky is one of the great perks ofwriting historical fiction...at least for me, and I suspect every other suchnovelist.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Persia Woolley is the author of the Guinevere Trilogy: Child of the Northern Spring, Queen of the Summer Stars, and Guinevere: the Legend in Autumn, as well as How to Write and Sell Historical Fiction. She lives in Northern California.

Visit the author:

ABOUT THE BOOK

Guinevere, the Legend in Autumn by Persia Woolley (Historical Fiction)

The conclusion to a celebrated Arthurian trilogy based on more than a decade of research, Guinevere, the Legend in Autumn is a startlingly original recreation of the tale of Arthur and Guinevere, seen from the perspective of a likeable, realistic Guinevere, a Queen who deserves to become a legend.

Surrounded by traitors, trapped by destiny, Britain's spirited Queen Guinevere recounts the last, dramatic years of Camelot. At King Arthur's side, she reigned over the fabled heroes of the Round Table as her heartbreaking honesty, courage, and integrity were challenged by those she loved most. Torn between duty and desire as he rescued his Queen, condemned to the stake for treason, Lancelot swept her away as she bartered her soul to save Arthur and Camelot from the furies of fate. This is Arthurian epic at its best–filled with romance, adventure, authentic Dark Ages detail, and wonderfully human people.

Yes, Dear Reader, There is a Santa Claus by Victoria Gray

2011-12-14T09:57:00.000-05:00

Yes,Dear Reader, There is a Santa Claus

ByVictoria Gray

I indulge in a love affair every year at Christmas time withan older man who has a bit of a weight problem and truly never heard of theAtkins diet, but he’s a flashy dresser with an even flashier means oftransportation. He’s generous, possibly to a fault, and I don’t usually go fora big, ZZ-Top style beard, but he’s the exception. My home is filled withimages of this man – his face is even on my Christmas ornaments. My husbanddoesn’t mind my interest. He’s not in the least bit jealous. In fact, my darlinghusband, a man who reminds me more than a little bit of Clark Griswold,searched Ebay to find an old, somewhat cheesy plastic rendering of him that wasfirst crafted in the sixties. So, who is this mystery man?

You guessed it – Santa Claus, that jolly resident of theNorth Pole who now attracts NORAD’s interest every Christmas Eve. Long beforeSanta’s sleigh was tracked on radar, Santa became an indelible part of Americanculture. A century before Macy’s Thanksgiving parade ushered in the Christmasseason, the poem A Visit from SaintNicholas introduced the image of Santa Claus that many Americans cherish.From the young toddler sitting on Santa’s lap to the homeowner competing withhis neighbor to have the grandest light display in the neighborhood, the imageof a jolly old man with a white beard, red suit, and reindeer at the readybrings to mind the joy and warmth of Christmas.

Amazingly, Santa’s image became a vital part of America’sChristmas tradition during the Civil War. Cartoonist Thomas Nast’s portrayal ofSanta on the cover of the January 3, 1863 edition of Harper’s Weekly depictedSanta seated on his sleigh, complete with hat and beard, presenting gifts to Union soldiers on thebattlefield. Three decades later, an eight-year-old girl, Virginia O’Hanlon,wrote a letter to the New York Sun that spawned one of the most famouseditorials in history, Francis Church’s response. Church, a former Civil Warcorrespondent who’d seen man’s inhumanity to man in vivid terms, responded withthe immortal line, Yes, Virginia, thereis a Santa Claus. His touching, philosophical response viewed the existenceof Santa in terms of love and goodness and giving.

One of my most enduring images of Santa emerged from theclassic movie Miracle on 34^thStreet. The classic film charmed generations. Remade decades later, thepremise was the same – Santa is real, if only in our hearts. What a lovelymessage to remember during the holiday season.

What images bring Christmas to mind most vividly for you? Doesmistletoe bring back memories of a treasured kiss, or would cookies for Santastir memories of Christmas past? What signs of Christmas touch your heart?

*~*~*~*

Leave a comment for a chance to win my new release, Surrender to Your Touch. One commenterwill be chosen to win a free pdf of the novel.

Surrenderto Your Touch isavailable from Amazon.com: E-book or Print,

and

The Wild RosePress: E-book and Print

I hope readerswill stop by my website and my blog, www.victoriagrayromance.com ; www.victoriagrayromance.blogspot.com.

I’d love foryou to friend me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.

A Darcy for Everyone!

2011-12-13T14:18:00.003-05:00

I am a huge fan of Jane Austen and JA Fan-fic, so I thought I'd pass along this email I received from Sourcebooks!

Cheers and Happy Birthday Jane!

*****

A Darcy for Everyone! Sourcebooks Celebrates Jane Austen’s Birthday!

From Tuesday December 13^th – Friday December 30^th the following eBooks will be priced at $1.99 at all online e-tailers. Whether you like Darcy as a tortured vampire, a modern day rock star, a Texas rancher or anything and everything in between! There truly is a Darcy for everyone!

A Darcy Christmas – Carolyn Eberhart, Sharon Lathan and Amanda Grange

Darcys & the Bingleys – Marsha Altman

Darcy’s Voyage – Kara Louise

Fitzwilliam Darcy, Rock Star – Heather Lynn Rigaud

The Man Who Loved Pride and Prejudice – Abigail Reynolds

Mr. & Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One – Sharon Lathan

Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard – Belinda Roberts

Mr. Darcy Takes a Wife – Linda Berdoll

Mr. Darcy, Vampyre – Amanda Grange

Pemberley Chronicles – Rebecca Ann Collins

Pemberley Ranch – Jack Caldwell

Searching for Pemberley – Mary Lydon Simonsen

Trials of the Honorable F. Darcy – Sara Angelini

Darcy and Fitzwilliam – Karen V. Wasylowski

You can find all of the titles and information here:

http://www.sourcebooks.com/readers/browse-our-lists/ebook-specials/1884-a-darcy-for-everyone.html

Colin Falconer Introduces His Novel: HAREM

2011-12-12T11:59:00.002-05:00

Welcome back to History Undresesd today, Colin Falconer! Today he's talking with us about a bit of fascinating history behind his re-release, HAREM. Leave a comment for a chance to win an ebook copy of HAREM. Enjoy!

HARĒM

History Undressed

Colin Falconer

The word 'Harēm'conjures an element of fantasy for most people; of women in gauzy veils drapedlanguorously beside steam baths against a background of incense and marble. Across between a high class bordello and a spa resort.

Most men are disappointed to learn that theOttoman harēm was in fact run by the Sultan's mother.

She had assumed the title of 'Valide Sultan'upon her son's ascension and thus became the most powerful woman in the OttomanEmpire. It was the ultimate achievement for a former concubine and slave. She wasnow head of a palace that had once been her prison, and also wielded enormousinfluence over her son's political decisions and by extension the Empire thathad enslaved her.

She also regulated the relations between himand his wives and children.

Do I dare say it? This caused friction.

Far from the indolent massage parlour ofmale fantasy, the harēm was in fact a hotbed of intrigue and ambition. All thewomen were in competition with each other; and every one of them wanted to bethe next Valide.

The Sultan was allowed just four principalfavourites but an unlimited number of concubines. Far fewer Sultans tookadvantage of this arrangement than you might think. Most Sultans preferredtheir favourites to a different girl every night.

The Australian actor Jack Thompson perhapsexplained the reason for this best. He lived with many years with twin sisters.Many men seemed to think this was an ideal arrangement and one reporterquestioned him about it. Jack answered: 'You know what it's like coming homeafter a night out and having to face one woman? Well imagine having to face two.'

The rank and file concubines were chosenfor their exceptional beauty and intelligence. Inside the world of the harēm theywere considered the contemporary equivalent to a 'one night stand.' Should shebe chosen for this honour and fail to arouse sufficient interest during theencounter, she might never see the Sultan again. But if she was asked backrepeatedly she became an iqbal, afavourite.

But pleasing the Sultan was only part of it;it was also essential to get pregnant with a male child so that she couldbecome one of the Sultan's 'wives'. Then, although technically still a slave herself, she was given her own apartments,slaves, and eunuchs.

She couldnow one day become the most powerful woman in the Empire - or finish her daysin a weighted sack at the bottom of the Bosphorus.

But theconcubines and kadins were only half the story. Eunuchswere the integral other half of the harēm.There is a myth that once a man has been castrated he loses his desire forwomen. Sadly, from my research, I learned that this is apparently not the case.It must have been truly torturous for these men to be surrounded by naked and exquisitelybeautiful women and still retain their yearning.

There were two sets of eunuchs; the whiteeunuchs came from the conquered Christian areas of Georgia, and Armenia, or asprisoners of war from Hungary and Germany.They were only partly castrated.

(Imagine what happens in lambing season -it was like that.)

The black eunuchs however were completely'shaven'. Most of these operations were performed at a Coptic monastery inEgypt. The boys were brought there from the Sudan as young boys. Their averageage was eight. The survival rate was ten per cent.

Enough said.

Should a eunuch survive this procedure andrise to become the Chief Black Eunuch he would then find himself the thirdhighest-ranking officer of the empire, after the Sultan and the Grand Vizierand functioned as the private messenger between the Sultan and his mother. Itwas also his appointed task to lead a new odalisque to the Sultan's bedchamber, and was the only"man" who could enter the harēm should there be any nocturnalemergencies.

Being in control of the Harēm and head of anet of spies in his fellow Black Eunuchs, he was deeply involved in almostevery palace intrigue and these men even gained power over the Vizier and theSultan himself.

The Chief White Eunuch was the head of the harēmbureaucracy and was supposed to have no contact with the harēm women, but thiswas not always the case in practice. As they were not completely 'shaven', theysometimes retained the ability to satisfy a lonely harēm girl. A few years after Suleiman's death theywere banned from the Harēm completely as too many of the girls were fallingpregnant without the Sultan's assistance.

Far from being the fantasy place ofnineteenth century art, the harēm was in fact a sad and lonely place ofintrigue and deadly spite. For young women it must have been a terrible anddolorous place.

But oh, let me tell you; it was just afantastic background for a novel!

COLINFALCONER is the author of WHEN WE WERE GODS, ANASTASIA and many other books ofhistorical fiction. His work has been translated into seventeen languages. Hislatest novel SILK ROAD, was published in London last month by Corvus-Atlantic.

HAREM for Amazon US

HAREM for Amazon UK

Colin Falconer's blog

Colin Falconer's website

Video of the Week! Horrible Histories -- The Tudors Song

2011-12-08T11:40:00.001-05:00

Okay, yes by now you must realize I am a Horrible Histories junkie! I love these videos! Enjoy :)

Callie Hutton Presents an Early 20th Century Interview with her Characters

2011-12-05T08:49:00.001-05:00

Today History Undressed would like to welcome guest author Callie Hatton, who has written up a special interview with her hero and heroine from A Wife by Christmas!

August 11, 1906: The Guthrie Sentinel, NewCommunity News, Page Two

The Guthrie Sentinel is proud to introduce our readers toMr. Max Colbert, the new Principal of the Logan County High School.

Reporter: The former principal, Mr. David Robinson, had beenin that position for quite some time. Do you anticipate making changes now thatyou’ve taken on the job?

Mr. Colbert: I have gone through files Mr. Robinson leftbehind, and spoken to several teachers. It does appear some changes are needed,particularly with the staff.

Reporter: Will you be letting some teachers go? Is that the changes you anticipate?

Mr. Colbert: Not at all. I’m re-thinking our list ofacceptable teacher activities. Several pursuits do not reflect well on theteaching community. It is important that we represent ourselves with dignityand decorum.

Reporter: Are there any activities in particular you wouldlike to see abandoned by your teachers?

Mr. Colbert: One of our teachers is actively involved inWomen’s Rights’ movements, which is totally inappropriate for a teacher ofyoung minds. There are other things as well, which we’ll deal with one at atime.

Reporter: Do you anticipate any problems with the changesyou plan?

Mr. Colbert: Not at all. I’m sure all the teachers will behappy to have a strong leader guiding them, and encouraging them to put forththeir best efforts both in and outside of the classroom.

Reporter: Well, we certainly wish you well in yourendeavor. Thank you for joining ustoday.

Mr. Colbert: Thankyou. I look forward to a productiveyear.

August 11, 1906: The Guthrie Sentinel, Spotlighton Our Citizens, Page Three:

Today we interview Miss Ellie Henderson, History teacher atLogan County High School, and spokeswoman for Guthrie branch of The Women’sRights Movement.

Reporter: Miss Henderson, how does your activities with theMovement fit with your job as teacher?

Miss Henderson: Quite well, actually. Our Principal, Mr.Robinson, is very supportive of our activities. He encourages us to think forourselves and embrace whatever causes we see fit.

Reporter: Are you aware that Mr. Robinson has retired fromhis position at the high school?

Miss Henderson: Iheard rumors to that effect at the end of last term, but I don’t think it willmake any difference to our Movement.

Reporter: Suppose your new principal is not supportive ofyour activities?

Miss Henderson: Idon’t see that as a problem, sir. I’m sure our new principal will be just asaccommodating as Mr. Robinson has always been. Men are much more enlightened inthe new century.

Reporter: If any ofour readers wish to join your organization, where can they find you?

Miss Henderson: We meet every Tuesday at the Library ateight o’clock. We welcome all those interested.

Reporter: Well, we certainly wish you well with theMovement, and your teaching career. Thank you for joining us today.

Miss Henderson: Thankyou. I look forward to another year of instructing young people and openingtheir minds to the benefits of equal rights.

~~~~~~~~~~

Max Colbert and Ellie Henderson are about to start theschool year. By December, sparks are flying. Will they resolve theirdifferences? Or has the school become a battle ground between two stubborncombatants?

A Wife By Christmas, available now from Soul Mate Publishingwill answer those questions. www.soulmatepublishing.com

Visit my website: www.calliehutton.comfor more information on the book, which is a sequel to A Run For Love, alsofrom Soul Mate Publishing and available now.

Excerpt:

Guthrie, OK
November, 1906

            Max Colbertglared at the woman perched on the edge of the chair across from him. History teacher Ellie Henderson had been athorn in his side the size of the Oklahoma sky ever since he’d been appointedprincipal of Logan County High School three months ago.

            She sat there, humming. Humming! His gut twisted and he clenchedhis jaw. Drat the woman for being sounconcerned while he fumed. It wasimportant to get his emotions under control, needed his years of experience tokick in. He took a deep breath andleaned forward.

           “Miss Henderson, your unapproved activitieshave gone too far. I am going to have to fire you.”

Ellie’sright eyebrow rose, meeting him glare for glare. “No. You can’t.”

“Yes I can,and I am.” Blood rushed to his face.

She stoodand placed both palms on his desk, and leaned in. “I will tell my Uncle Jesse.”

Max pushedhis chair back and got to his feet. He moved close enough to see the lightdusting of freckles across her nose. “It won’t make any difference.”

“It will ifyou plan to be Territorial Superintendent of Schools.” They were now almostnose-to-nose.

Beads ofsweat broke out on his forehead. “I will get that job on my own merit.”

“Not without Senator Jesse Cochran’s endorsement.” Her hazel eyes narrowed.

His jaw tightened, his mouthworking as if to say something. Then like a rag doll, he collapsed into hisseat and leaned back, eyes closed. “Miss Henderson, you are a pebble in myshoe.”

“And you,Mr. Colbert, are a horse’s behind.”

He openedone eye. She again sat primly on the edge of her seat, adjusting herskirts. The two red dots on her cheeksthe only indication of her anger.

“You may leave now,” he saidthrough gritted teeth.

Ellie bowedher head slightly. “As you wish.” She stood, smoothed back the hair alwaysloose from her bun. With head held high,she sailed from the room, closing the door softly. Her skirt stuck in the door.She re-opened it, yanked the skirt and banged the door shut.

Max winced at the sound, his lefteye twitched.

I hope you enjoyed this little taste of Ellie and Max. Iwould love to hear from you. One commenter will receive a free download of AWife By Christmas.

Callie Hutton

New Workshops Presented by Eliza Knight for 2012

2011-12-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

"He said/She said" -- Writing Fictional Dialogue

(1/9/12 - 1/23/12)

Learn the mechanics of writing dialogue, and how to make your character's conversations pop.

Craft/mechanics of writing dialogue
What to write and what not to write
What moves the story along
Tags/action tags
Mixing dialogue with action/narrative
Making character GMC shine through speech
Viewing indivual personality traits/morals/values through speech
Weaving backstory into dialogue
Dialect

Multiple lessons, exercises and critiques provided each week. Your readers will be able to "hear" what your characters are saying.

S.E.X. -- Writing the S.ensual E.vocative X.perience

(1/23/12 - 2/6/12)

Writing love scenes can be some of the hardest (no pun intended) prose to create. By the end of this workshop you'll know how to write love scenes like no other! (This workshop is intended for both mainstream romance and erotic romance writers, and writers of mainstream fiction!) In this workshop you'll learn:

Sensual language/body part terms
How to make your scenes come alive with sensory details
Weaving emotion into love scenes (the scenes have to move the story along, no gratuitous sex!)
Making each scene unique to the characters and the story
The mechanics of the body (ie... anatomy & positions)
Getting yourself in the "sex" mind-set
Dialogue in love scenes
The differences between mainstream romance and erotic romance

Multiple lessons, exercises and critiques provided each week.

***Warning! Be prepared... this class comes with an advisory. It will get dirty... It will be fun. It will be an interesting experience. You will write better sex.

Each workshop purchased individually is $15 or you can purchase both at a discounted rate of $25.

Click HERE to register.

Guest Author Sharon Lathan on Paris in the Early 1800's

2011-11-30T07:03:00.001-05:00

Welcome guest author, Sharon Lathan to History Undressed! I spent many a summer in my youth in France and I LOVE Paris AND this time period, so I'm especially excited for you all to read Ms. Lathan's post today! Please leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of Miss Darcy Falls in Love. (1 winner, US/Canada only).

Paris in the Early 1800s

by Sharon Lathan

Whether you have been to Paris or not there are certain imagesthat instantly flash in your mind when the ancient city is mentioned. Soingrained are these visions of what Paris IS that perhaps you might be surprisedto learn that many of the iconic Paris sights either did not exist 200 yearsago or were vastly different.

My latest novel - Miss Darcy Falls in Love - is set in1820. At that time Napoleon Bonaparte was in exile on the island of SaintHelena and the Bourbon Restoration was underway with Louis XVIII on the throne.There was a measure of stability, but the long decades of war and revolutioncoupled with the major political upheavals ongoing meant that France was farfrom peaceful. Paris, as the capitol, showed the greatest evidence of thenumerous trials. Scars were visible at every corner despite Napoleon and Louis’attempts to reconstruct, and disorganization was constant. It would be manydecades more before Paris truly became the glittering city it now is.

Nevertheless, in 1820 life for the Parisians was near perfectioncompared to the previous thirty-some years. Opera, theatre, arts, and socialactivities abounded. Yet, as I said, many of those places now top tourist trapswere not available to Miss Darcy and her friends.

Eiffel Tower: Today itis the tallest building in Paris and one of the most visited monuments inEurope, but it was not built until 1889. The large flat open park called the Champ de Mars, where the Tower stands,had served as a site for executions during the Revolution and militarytraining, but by 1820 was a popular park for festivals and other celebratoryevents.

Musée du Louvre:Originally a palace and fortress, the Louvre was transformed into a publicmuseum during the French Revolution, the royal collections viewable for thefirst time. Located close to the TuileriesPalace, the Louvre Palace was structurally renovated several times duringthe 17th and 18th centuries, it’s general splendor as we now see it. However,in the early decades of the 19th century it was far smaller than it now is andheld considerably less works of art. All through the century vast wings wouldbe added on to house the flood of art arriving from all over the world until iteventually became a massive complex with the palace only one portion of thewhole. So huge is the present day Louvre that it cannot be captured in onephoto. When Georgiana and Sebastian tour the Louvre it is still a seat of royalpower with the Tuileries standing, already supremely impressive as a museum,and undergoing constant construction.

Arc de Triomphe: Themonument to honor those who fought and died for France in the Revolutionary andNapoleonic Wars was conceived in 1806. The foundations were laid in 1810 butconstruction halted during the Restoration, the final structure not completeduntil 1836. Therefore, my characters would not have seen this marvel. Insteadthey stroll through the Tuileries Gardens and pause at the smaller Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. Built in1808 by commission of Napoleon to commemorate his military victories, thelesser Arc was nevertheless an impressive sculpture and integral part of the axe historique (grand historic axis) ofParis. Pictured here you can see the Arc with the Louvre behind as it wouldhave looked in 1820.

Notre Dame Cathedral:Completed in 1250, Notre Dame is the “World Ambassador of Gothic Cathedrals.”For seven hundred years it has stood on the site of ancient sacred ground,revered and generally well cared for except during the years of the Revolution.Churches in France were universally rededicated to the “cult of Reason” andNotre Dame suffered severe defacement, destruction, and desecration. Until themid-19th century the cathedral was ignored as a house of worship, used insteadas a storage facility and place for public gatherings. It is unlikely that MissDarcy, or anyone visiting Paris in 1820, would have taken the time to visit theruined Notre Dame.

Other famous attractions not in Paris at the time of my novelinclude Cleopatra’s Needle (1833), Elephant of the Bastille (the fountainand model elephant were present by 1814, but the elephant not completed until1833 and has since been removed), the Sacré-Coeur(1873), the Moulin Rouge (1889), orthe Opéra de Paris Garnier.

Do not feel sorry for my characters though! They did visit theLouvre and walked the Tuileries Gardens. They also toured the Panthéon, rode down the Champs-Ėlysées, saw the exotic animalsand plants in the Jardin des Planteszoo and botanical gardens, and socialized along the pathways of the Place de la Concorde. Did I mention theopera houses, salons, ballrooms, and palatial chateaûs? Paris of 1820 may havebeen in moderate chaos and a paler version of what it now is, but the City ofLight was phenomenal nonetheless. And the perfect place to immerse in music andfall in love.

Synopsis of Miss DarcyFalls in Love--

Noble young ladies were expected to play an instrument, butGeorgiana Darcy is an accomplished musician who hungers to pursue her talents. Sheembarks upon a tour of Europe, ending in Paris where two very different menwill ignite her heart in entirely different ways and begin a bitter rivalry towin her. But only one holds the key to her happiness.

Set in post-Napoleonic Empire France, Miss Darcy Falls in Love isa riveting love story that enters a world of passion where gentlemen knowexactly how to please and a young woman learns to direct her destiny andunderstand her heart.

Sharon’s Bio--

Sharon Lathan is the best-selling author of The Darcy Saga sequelseries to Jane Austen’s Pride &Prejudice. Her previously published novels are: Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy: Two Shall Become One, Loving Mr. Darcy,My Dearest Mr. Darcy, In the Arms of Mr. Darcy, A Darcy Christmas, and The Trouble With Mr. Darcy. Miss Darcy Fallsin Love is Georgiana’s tale of love and adventure while in France. Completewith a happy ending. In addition to her writing, Sharon works as a RegisteredNurse in a Neonatal ICU. She resides with her family in Hanford, California inthe sunny San Joaquin Valley. Visit Sharon on her website: www.sharonlathan.netand on Austen Authors, her group blog with 20 novelist of Austen literature: www.austenauthors.com

Regency Weddings @ Romancing the Past Today

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Visit me today at Romancing the Past for a post on Regency Weddings...

Just a taste...

During the Regency, weddings became mostly private affairs, and if held at church (and not in the family drawin room) was not attended by that many. The lovely bride would be attended by her younger unmarried sisters or cousins, perhaps a dear family friend. The groom would also have a best man--brother, dear friend, cousin. There was also the required witnesses, who on occaision were those very same attendents....

Continue reading at Romancing the Past

Historical Romance Review: Lord and Lady Spy by Shana Galen

2011-11-23T16:00:00.000-05:00

This may be the BEST of Ms. Galen's books that I've read yet. I enjoyed this book immensely, so much so I'm going to give it a recommended read, like ASAP!

MY REVIEW:

From the opening line... "The spy called Saint hunkered down in the bottom of the wardrobe she'd occupied for the last four hours and attempted to stifle a yawn." ...I was hooked. Ms. Galen, you had me at "The spy called Saint..." There is nothing more enjoyable then opening a book and immediately being thrust into a tense scene.

I admit that when this book first graced my desk, I was intrigued. I loved the movie, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, with Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt--a married couple with no idea that each of them are assassins until, suddenly, one day they are hired to off each other. This book reminded me of it in title, and a little bit in essence.

I enjoyed watching Lord and Lady Smythe battle it out. I loved the reveal of who they were to each other, and watching them not only grow as spies but as a couple. They'd been through a lot in the previous years before this tale begins, and much pain had been endured. Now they will learn to be a team, discover who they really are, not just that they are spies, but who they are inside. Watching them grow and change and fall in love was a treat in an of itself, besides the bad-ass action scenes! LOVE Sophia and Adrian is hot as hell. The way the two of these converse is entertaining, witty and just downright fab!

I am also distinctly reminded while reading how much Ms. Galen is intune with the Regency era. The language, the clothes, the politics, the etiquette, the every day life. We are immersed in the setting, and it doesn't detract from the story--only heightens it. I WANT to list my favorite scenes because they are just too awesome, but I don't want to give anything away... soooo I will just say these few words and when you're reading you'll know what I mean... fighting in darkness, carriages--pretty much every carriage scene, naked jumping, gardens...

Ms. Galen has a tremendous talent of writing action packed, adventure filled, sensual romances, that leave a reader wishing the book went on forever. Well done! I highly recommend LORD AND LADY SPY!

Enjoy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

No man can outsmart him...
Lord Adrian Smythe may appear a perfectly boring gentleman, but he leads a thrilling life as one of England's most preeminent spies, an identity so clandestine even his wife is unaware of it. But he isn't the only one with secrets...

But one woman almost certainly can...
Now that the Napoleonic wars have come to an end, daring secret agent Lady Sophia Smythe can hardly bear the thought of returning home to her tedious husband. Until she discovers in the dark of night that he's not who she thinks he is after all...

Shana Galen's brilliant Regency world features two noble spies who cross swords and meet their match in a fast-paced, witty love story full of excitement and heart.

Guest Grace Burrowes, Author of The Virtuoso and Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish

2011-11-22T08:11:00.001-05:00

Welcome to History Undressed, today's guest author, Grace Burrowes! Writer of Regency romance, she has a lovely blog for us today. Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of her newest release, THE VIRTUOSO. (2 winners/ US & Canada only)

*~*~*~*~*

Anauthor who’s going to make her Regency hero a piano virtuoso had first bestdetermine whether such a thing existed at the time his story takes place.Fortunately for me and for Lord Valentine in The Virtuoso, it did—but only barely.

Mostpeople are familiar with the term “wunderkind,” or wonder child, as it appliedto Mozart (1756-1791) and his sister Nannerl. Their doting if profit-mindedpapa paraded them all over Europe in the years 1762-1773, including two tripsto London (1764 and 1765). The English therefore had at least one precedent fora piano virtuoso. I was surprised to find that the first English piano virtuoso,and the first musician referred to generally as such, was none other than dearold Muzio Clementi (1752-1832).

Clementi’ssonatinas remain in our repertoire as teaching studies. They’re pretty, not toolong, not too complicated, and they make nice party pieces—they also show onlythe confectionary end of Clementi’s abilities. In Lord Valentine’s day,Clementi, who was raised and educated in England from the age of fourteen on,would have been the grand old fellow of concert, composition, and musicpublishing fame. Clementi also built pianos and some of his technologicaladvances are still in use in our modern instruments.

Ihave a degree in music history and my instrument was piano, and yet I did notknow that Clementi was credited with influencing Chopin, Lizst and a host ofother romantic figures. I also did not know enough about the technicalevolution of the piano.

Thefirst pianos probably date from about 1700 and were built in Italy. By Mozart’stime, they were still smallish instruments, with five octave keyboards, andonly a simple sustaining pedal. By Lord Valentine’s day, small pianos forcottage use were being built along the earlier, more modest dimensions, but sotoo were concert versions and salon versions with six octaves and even afew—Beethoven had one—reaching to a seventh octave.

Therewould be something un-heroic about a big, handsome fellow in fancy eveningattire sitting down to impress the ladies by playing at an itty-bitty pianocapable of only itty-bitty sound. I was much relieved to know that grands andimposing square pianos were the norm in better households during the Regency,and that Lord Val would soon have at his disposal pianos with ranges very nearto what we play on today.

Thentoo, for a virtuoso to tour profitably, there had to be large venues for him toplay in (the English frowned on women performing for money, while the Continenttook a more liberal view). During theRegency, the primary concert venue, His Majesty’s Threatre at Haymarket, wasrenovated to increase its capacity from 1200 seats to 2500.

Somuch to my relief, Lord Valentine arrived to his story at a point in musicalevolution when both worthy instruments and worthy venues were on hand toshowcase his talent… My only task was then to provide him a worthy lady toappreciate some of his other attributes—and his music too, of course.

The Virtuoso byGrace Burrowes – In Stores November 2011

A genius with aterrible loss…

Giftedpianist Valentine Windham, youngest son of the Duke of Moreland, has littleinterest in his father’s obsession to see his sons married, and instead pourspassion into his music. But when Val loses his music, he flees to the country,alone and tormented by what has been robbed from him.

A widow with aheartbreaking secret…

GrievingEllen Markham has hidden herself away, looking for safety in solitude. Hercurious new neighbor offers a kindred lonely soul whose desperation is matchedonly by his desire, but Ellen’s devastating secret could be the one thing thatdestroys them both.

Togetherthey’ll find there’s no rescue from the past, but sometimes losing everythingcan help you find what you need most.

Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish by Grace Burrowes – In Stores NOW!

Aluminous holiday tale of romance, passion, and dreams come true from rising starGrace Burrowes, whose award-winning Regency romances are capturing heartsworldwide.

All she wants is peace and anonymity…

LadySophie Windham has maneuvered a few days to herself at the ducal mansion inLondon before she must join her family for Christmas in Kent. Suddenly trappedby a London snowstorm, she finds herself with an abandoned baby and only theassistance of a kind, handsome stranger standing between her and completedisaster.

But Sophie’s holiday is about to heat up…

Withhis estate in ruins, Vim Charpentier sees little to feel festive about thisChristmas. His growing attraction for Sophie Windham is the only thing thatwarms his spirits—but when Sophie’s brothers whisk her away, Vim’s most painfulholiday memories are reawakened.

It seems Sophie’s been keeping secrets,and now it will take much more than a mistletoe kiss to make her deepest wishescome true…

Aboutthe Author

Grace Burrowes is the pen namefor a prolific and award-winning author of historical romances. The Heir,received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist, and was selected as a Publishers Weekly Best Bookof the Year for 2010. Both The Heir and its follow-up, The Solider,are New York Times and USA Today bestsellers. She is a practicingattorney specializing in family law and lives in a restored log cabin inwestern Maryland without a TV, DVD or radio because she's too busy working onher next books. For more information, please visit http://www.graceburrowes.com/.

Political Intrigue during the Medieval Age by Terry Spear

2011-11-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to History Undressed, guest author Terry Spear! Terry is the award-winning author of fantasy and medieval romance. Leave a comment to win a copy of Ms. Spear's medieval romance novel, Winning the Highlander's Heart.

Political Intrigue during the Medieval Age

By Terry Spear

The medieval period was from about 500 AD to 1500 AD, soquite a bit of time and change.

When we talk about one period of time, it can be verydifferent from another in terms of lifestyle, clothes, and what was availableto the populace. Also, the change in the political arena made for a lot ofdifference in medieval times.

So when we say we’re writing about a medieval romance in aparticular time, it can be way different from one much later. And it dependedon the location. Some areas were still more in the Dark Ages, when others hadmoved ahead.

I chose to write about King Henry I’s time period, 1100 AD,because I found him a fascinating king and the emerging scenario with histaking a wife who was the daughter of the Scottish king and the Saxon princess,who had been the niece of the Saxon king killed and replaced by Henry’s father,William the Conqueror of Normandy. She was an interesting person as well, againeducated, and her mother had placed her in her aunt’s convent, to ensureunscrupulous men would not have their way with her.

Now, Henry was the first of the kings who was reallyeducated as he was meant to be a bishop, not king, since he was the third sonof William. But the older brother, William Rufus, who was serving as king aftertheir father died, met his own death in a hunting accident under rathersuspicious circumstances while Henry was in attendance. The next oldest brotherwas away fighting the Crusades, so what could Henry do? But take over thetreasury and become king.

It’s important to learn as much about the clothing, foodthat was served during this period of time, as well as the accommodations.Although because I write romance, I don’t get into some of the smellierdetails.

But what I found the most fun while creating the story wasincluding some of the political intrigue.

When William conquered Saxon England, the ruling king diedand the Saxon princess and prince fled to Scotland where they were givenprotection. But the Scottish king fell in love with the Saxon princess. Nowdoesn’t that sound like a fairy-tale romance? It was. When he died years later,she did also, of grief.

The thing of it is, the Saxon princess’s father had beenking, but his brother murdered him and took over the kingdom, and then he tookin his brother’s son and daughter, since he had no children of his own. Like Isaid, lots and lots of intrigue.

The Saxon prince united with Henry’s older brother, who vowsto take over England and rule as he should have. I did include some of that inthe story as well. One of the knights who they meet on the road is actually aknight that Henry used to lead his men to fight his brother.

In one case, Lady Anice and Malcolm MacNeill stay at a realcastle that was still owned by a Saxon. He had pledged his loyalty to Williamthe Conqueror, figuring probably that he would be the winner and didn’t want tolose his lands.

William had offered his relation to him, after he had herhusband (a Norman baron) executed because he had plotted against William. Sothen he offers her as the wife to the Saxon lord in payment for his loyalty.She refuses and he sends her to one of the islands to live in poverty. But herdaughter doesn’t want this kind of life and offers herself to marry the Saxonlord.

So that was included in the story as well. Don’t you justlove all this real life intrigue?

It’s so much fun to use real history that is just asfascinating as making it up!

One of the things I found also interesting was that althoughwomen wore wimples and covered their hair (because it was too enticing for mennot to be covered), but during the time that Henry’s wife ruled by his side,women didn’t have to wear the covering. And they often braided their hair withextensions to make it even longer!

While she was at the convent, she’d been beaten by her auntfor throwing down her hair cover and when she left there to marry Henry, shevowed not to wear it again. It became fashionable then for many of the ladiesto wear their hair uncovered.

Another thing I found fascinating was that the food wasn’tbland or dreary to eat, not in a royal household, but was decorated to a fairlywell. And fruits and vegetables were considered bad for you if it wasn’t cookedfirst.

Castles were defenses, foremost. They didn’t have hugewindows, but merely arrow slots where they could shoot an approaching enemy. Ivisited several castles in Scotland and in one of the tower rooms, they had notonly the arrow slot windows, but they’d created round ones for updated weapons--guns.Men who would be holed up in the tower for a long time, watching the grounds,would use another hole nearer the base of the floor to relieve themselves.

Yep, no toilet! Where would it go? Down the wall of thetower to the ground below. :)

Also while I visited the Scottish castles, the stairs werenarrow, to prevent more than one attacker access and they always curved to theright so that the defender would have the advantage where he could swing his sword and unless theattacker was left-handed, he could not as well.

You’ve heard that knights were supposed to be chivalrous,right? At first, they weren’t. Some would steal from those who couldn’t fightback just because the knights were so well armored. Then the rule of chivalrycame into effect, and though it didn’t mean everyone would abide by the rules,things got better. But one of the funny happenings I uncovered with regard toknights—was that their armored feet—the sabaton--were armored plates riveted onthe boots. For a period, the fashion was to make them longer and longer, kindof like women’s pointy dress shoes. The knights would wiggle their long shinyarmor plated toes at the ladies in a sexual way, making them blush and giggle.

The church, wet blanket that it could be, declared that theshoes were indecent and could not be that long. Not sure what they said aboutthe cod pieces as the men’s tunics rose ever higher and the men’s cod piecesgrew ever bigger.

So that’s a glimpse of medieval history undressed—a littlebit of political intrigue can go a long way!

Would you have been offended if a knight had wiggled the toeof his armored boot at you?

Terry Spear

“Giving new meaning to the term alpha male where fantasy ISreality.”

www.facebook.com/terry.spear

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Author bio: Award-winning author Terry Spear is theauthor of urban fantasy romances and medieval Highland romances. She receivedPublishers Weekly's Best Book of the Year in 2008 for Heart of the Wolf. Aretired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry is a librarian by day. Shelives in Crawford, Texas.

CONTEST: Comment to win!

A copy of Winning the Highlander's Heart will be given to one US winner, the cover of a knight, not the Highland figure.

Escaping from King Henry’s advances, the Scottish Lady Anice falls into the hands of Highlander Laird Malcolm MacNeill, and murder and mayhem follow when she discovers some of her key staff are missing and she's targeted next.

*~*~*~*~*~*

The Accidental Highland Hero

Lady Eilis Dunbarton’s life undergoes a drastic change with the death of her cousin, Agnes. Now she’s faced with the disagreeable prospect of marrying the man who was to be her cousin’s husband. Not by a change of contract, though. Instead, by deceit—pretending to be her cousin. But if her husband-to-be discovers she’s not really Agnes, her life is forfeit. So what choice does Eilis have but to flee? When Laird James MacNeill’s clan rescues a half-drowned lass from the sea, there is speculation she is of the enemy clan, especially since she doesn’t remember her own name. James is immediately enticed with the lady, but his focus must remain on finding the proper bride. For if he does not wed soon, he must give up his holdings to one of his younger brothers. Focus slips away with each day Eilis is close, and James finds himself contemplating the thought of taking her to wife without knowing her true identity. But how dangerous would the end result be? And what will happen if Eilis’s husband-to-be comes looking for her only to find her in the arms of another man?

Video of the Week!

2011-11-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

This week's video is another BBC Horrible Histories song... and some of you may find it offensive, but I found it to be quite humorous.

In celebration of my alter-ego, Annabelle Weston, (which is contrived of myself and a WP), having just released a historical western romance, WICKED WOMAN, I thought it highly appropriate to play this cowboy song!

*~*~*~*~*

WICKED WOMAN is available now at: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / All Romance Ebooks

There are some things a man can’t walk away from. Nathan Bender is on a quest for vengeance. What he finds is sexy saloon-dolly O’Dell Murphy. She holds the information he needs—and becomes a temptation he can’t resist.

O’Dell longs for a respectable life outside the saloon. When the man Nathan is searching for steals O’Dell’s savings, she has no choice but to go after him.

Torn between passion and revenge, Nathan reluctantly accompanies O’Dell through the Sonoran Desert. There are some things a man can’t walk away from—and Nathan is finding it’s not revenge that binds him. It’s O’Dell, and the wicked, sinful pleasure she provides.

Reader Advisory: This book contains violence and a brief depiction of rape.

Click here to read an excerpt.

NEWS coming soon... WICKED WOMAN is going to be the first in a series... Leave a comment to win a copy of the ebook!

The Staff of Life by Ruth A. Casie

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today on History Undressed I'd like to welcome my dear friend, Ruth A. Casie! Her debut novel, Knight of Runes (which I highly recommend!) just released this week with Carina Press.

The Staff of Life

by Ruth A. Casie

This is where it all started, the 1963 movie, Tom Jones. Albert Finney(Tom Jones) licks his chicken bones and Joyce Redman (Mrs Waters) looks likeshe's making love to an apple. It showed that playing with your food could befun and anything edible will do! But what was a banquet really like?

The extravagant feasts and banquets of the Middle Ages arelegendary. However, while menus for the wealthy were extensive, only smallportions were taken. Hosts were expected to offer extensive choices. With more extensive travel, a change insociety emerged, possibly prompted by the Crusades, that led to a new andunprecedented interest in beautiful objects and elegant manners. This changeextended to food preparation and presentation and resulted in fabulous foodarrangements with exotic colors and flavorings. Banquets prepared during theMiddle Ages were fit for a king.

Staffing and Presentingthe Banquet

The kitchen squires where responsible for provisioning thekitchen. Assisted by the cooks, they chose, purchased, and paid for the goods.

The food was plated on the serving dishes and staged in thekitchen until it was time to bring to the tables in the Great Hall.

The Noble of the castle, and his distinguished guests, satat a great table that was set on a raised platform, a dais, at one of the hall.

Buffets were tables with a series of wooden stepped shelves.The number of shelves indicated the host’s rank. The more shelves the higherthe rank. The 'Stepped Buffets' were covered with rich drapes and used atbanquets and feasts. The Nobles impressed their guests by using their finestgold or silver plates as service plates on the buffet.

The banquet feast consisted of three, four, five, and evensix courses. At times the presentations of the main courses were made into atheatrical representation with colored jellies of swans or peacocks orpheasants with their feathers. Served as a specialty the beak and feet of thesebirds were gilt and placed in the middle of the table as a centerpiece.

French MedievalBanquets

The French cooking historian described a great feast givenin 1455 by the Count of Anjou, third son of King Louis II of Sicily. Thisdescription demonstrates just how theatrical the presentation was:

“On the table was placed a center-piece, which represented agreen lawn, surrounded with large peacocks' feathers and green branches, towhich were tied violets and other sweet-smelling flowers.

In the middle of this lawn a fortress was placed, coveredwith silver.

The fortress was hollow, and formed a sort of cage, in whichseveral live birds were shut up, their tufts and feet being gilt.

On its tower, which was gilt, three banners were placed.

The first course consisted of a civet of hare, a quarter ofstag which had been a night in salt, a stuffed chicken, and a loin of veal.

The two last dishes were covered with a German sauce, withgilt sugar-plums, and pomegranate seeds.

At each end, outside the green lawn, was an enormous pie,surmounted with smaller pies, which formed a crown. The crust of the large pieswere silvered all round and gilt at the top.

Each pie contained a whole roe-deer, a gosling, threecapons, six chickens, ten pigeons, one young rabbit, and, no doubt to serve asseasoning or stuffing, a minced loin of veal, two pounds of fat, and twenty-sixhard-boiled eggs, covered with saffron and flavored with cloves.

For the three following courses, there was a roe-deer, apig, a sturgeon cooked in parsley and vinegar, and covered with powderedginger.

The feast continued with a kid goat, two goslings, twelvechickens, as many pigeons, six young rabbits, two herons, a leveret, a fatcapon stuffed, four chickens covered with yolks of eggs and sprinkled withspice, a wild boar, some wafers and stars and a jelly, part white and part redrepresented the crests of the honored guests, cream covered with fennel seedsand preserved in sugar, a white cream, cheese in slices, and strawberries, and,lastly, plums stewed in rose-water

Besides these four courses, there was a fifth, entirely ofwines then in vogue, and of preserves. These consisted of fruits and varioussweet pastries.”

I researched medieval banquets when I wrote Knight of Runes. Eating is fundamental and enjoyable. WhileArik and Rebeka don’t get it on quite like Tom and Mrs. Waters there isdefinitely an air of playfulness in the scene. The trouble every time I read that scene is I really get hungry. I’lllet you figure out for what!

Win a free $5 Amazon gift card by leaving a comment with your email address. One person will be randomly selected at the end of the day.

Author Bio

Ruth A. Casie was born in Brooklyn, New York. Fortwenty-five years she’s been writing for corporate America. Encouraged by herfamily and friends this ballroom dancing, Sudoku playing, aspiring gourmet cookhas given way to her inner muse and let her creative juices flow. Discoverstrong men and empowered women as they face unexpected challenges. Watch theirstories unfold as they encounter magic, danger, and passion. Join them as theyrace across the pages to places where love and time know no bounds.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

England, 1605

When Lord Arik, a druid knight, finds Rebeka Tyler wandering his lands without protection, he swears to keep her safe. But Rebeka can take care of herself. When Arik sees her clash with a group of attackers using a strange fighting style, he's intrigued.

Rebeka is no ordinary seventeenth-century woman—she's travelled back from the year 2011, and she desperately wants to return to her own time. She poses as a scholar sent by the king to find out what's killing Arik's land. But as she works to decode the ancient runes that are the key to solving this mystery and sending her home, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic and powerful Arik.

As Arik and Rebeka fall in love, someone in Arik's household schemes to keep them apart, and a dark druid with a grudge prepares his revenge. Soon Rebeka will have to decide whether to return to the future or trust Arik with the secret of her time travel and her heart.

Title: Knightof Runes

ISBN:978-14268-9258-5

Publisher: CarinaPress

Release Date:November 14, 2011

Genre:Historical Fantasy time-travel

Ruth’s website: www.ruthacasie.com

Ruth’s blog: ruthacasie.blogspot.com

Ruth’sTwitter: Twitter.com/RuthACasie

What NOT to Wear in the 14th Century by Amanda Forester

2011-11-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to History Undressed, guest author, Amanda Forester. Ms. Forester last visited us in March of 2010 with her post, Color Me Medieval. I'm glad to have her back today, and with another exciting Scottish historical romance out!

What Not to Wear in the 14th Century

by Amanda Forester

One of the most interesting, or at least the most time consuming,aspects of writing historical fiction is conducting all the research. Clothing is one of the biggest questions Ineed to figure out before my characters can step forth on their journey. In my newest release, The Highlander's Heart,the heroine is an English countess. Thedate is 1355. The question: what wouldshe wear?

In the first scene Isabelle (Countess of Tynsdale) is separated, or Ishould say separates herself, from her traveling companions (and the guards whoare taking her back to be killed). As Iwrote the scene I had to try to picture what she might be wearing. We're in medieval England, so obviously shewill be wearing some sort of gown, but what fabric?

Sumptuary laws can be a help. Inthe 14th century, the rise of a prosperous merchant class became a bother forthe nobility. The upstart commoners weregaining as much wealth as the established aristocracy and could start dressingthe part (oh, the horror). Can youimagine the daughter of a merchant wearing a similar gown as the daughter of anearl? Certainly not! Sumptuary laws strictly governed what peopleof different classes could wear so the privilege and rank of the aristocracycould be maintained, and the prosperous bourgeoisie could be kept in theirplace. In particular, women were not towear clothing above the rank of their fathers or husbands. Certain fabrics, such as velvet, silk,ermine, or sable fur were prohibited to "commoners". Since my heroine is a countess, it would belikely her clothing would reflect her rank, thus I dressed her in a rich wine-coloredvelvet.

But wait, I am getting ahead of myself. What about underclothes? Underher gown, a medieval lady would have worn a linen or silk chemise, which was aloose fitting smock-like dress. Shewould have worn hose, though usually only to the knee, and leather shoes, whichin the 14th century would have had a pointed toe. These shoes were generally for castle use; ifgoing outdoors, one would put on wooden patens to avoid getting wet feet.

Over the chemise, a lady would wear her gown called a kirtle. In the 14th century, the previous fashion ofstraight seams and draped garments were giving way to curved seams and morecareful tailoring. Since Lady Isabelleis noble, I expect her clothes would have had the benefit of time and money, solikley her gown would have fit her quite well. Since she would have had ladies to dress her, she would probably havebeen laced into her gown in a way not possible if you were dressingyourself. Her sleeves would have beenform fitting and long, perhaps to her knuckles. These long sleeves would have been laced or buttoned in place. The neckline of this era was becoming widerand lower, and may even have revealed a little cleavage.

Over the kirtle, a medieval lady may have worn a variety of differentkinds of overgowns. Some may have hadloose fitting sleeves, while others were sleeveless (called surcoats), whichmay have been worn loose or laced. Later in the 14th century, surcoats becameshorter, ending at the waistline, and were often form fitting to reveal a smallwaist. A belt was commonly worn, hanginglow on the hips. These belts, orgirdles, could be quite ornate. Sumptuarylaws forbade commoners from wearing a silver girdle, so clearly the nobilitywere using their belts to show their rank. These belt could be quite fine and even encrusted with jewels.

On her head a lady would wear some sort of covering. Being married, Isabelle's veil would be moremodest, possibly including a gorget, which wrapped around the chin and coveredthe neck. Being a lady, she would mostlikely wear a veil made of silk. Unfortunately for Isabelle, she loses her veil during her escape, and sowhen she meets the hero, Laird David Campbell, he assumes she is not of highsocial standing or moral character. Notrue lady would be traveling alone with her hair flowing loose. Thus begins the story of David and Isabelle!

I have always loved the long flowing gowns and rich colorsand fabrics of medieval times. Whatwould you have enjoyed wearing if you were living in the 14th century? Comment on the blog for a chance to win acopy of THE HIGHLANDER'S HEART. (US & CANADA ONLY)

THE HIGHLANDER'SHEART

Lady Isabelle escapes her murderous English husband only tobe abducted by a Highland warrior and held for ransom. Her determinationto break free from captivity is exceeded only by the passion growing betweenher and the Highland Laird. David Campbell plans to hold Isabelle forransom as an easy way to line his pockets and return her back where shebelongs, but he is unprepared for a feisty English lass with a penchant forfinding trouble. Caught between rival clans bent on claiming the throneof Scotland, Campbell must choose a side, and a bride. Standing on thebrink of war, Isabelle may be his only hope to save his clan, and his heart

Visit Amanda: website, facebook, or twitter.

New Book -- Time Travel Poll

2011-11-14T14:19:00.001-05:00

Hello all! I'm working on a new Highlander time-travel romance novel--in the plotting stages. But before I could continue, I wanted to know what readers want as far as the time-traveling element, in a story. My hero is a hot Highland warrior from the past, and the heroine is from present day.

When you're reading time-travel, do you prefer the hero to travel from the past to the future, the heroine to travel to the past, or a mix of both?

If you'd be so kind as to fill out the poll on the right side of this blog, I would be grateful!

Cheers,
Eliza

Happy Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T10:52:00.001-05:00

The Readers and Writers of History Undressed would like to extend our deepest gratitude to those who serve. We would not be where we are today without you!

Happy Veteran's Day!

March's Madness by Emery Lee

2011-11-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I'd like to welcome guest author, Emery Lee back to History Undressed. She previously visited us in April 2010 with the release of her debut novel, The Highest Stakes. She is back with us now to talk about March's Madness and her new release, Fortune's Son. Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Ms. Lee's novel, Fortune's Son. (1 winner, US and Canada only)

MARCH’S MADNESS

byEmery Lee

To those who have myread my novels to date, my love (readobsession) with the Georgian era is clearly evident. For those of you whohave not, I invite you to open the pages and immerse yourself in a fascinatingparadox that is nowhere better represented than in the lives of Georgianaristocrats - many of whom adopted an outward veneer to hide the sin within.

In my first novel,THE HIGHEST STAKES, I delved deeply into the obsessive world of horseracing andarranged marriages, where nothing was sacred and an individual’s happiness(particularly if one happened to be female) was easily laid aside to advance afamily’s political or social agenda.

In FORTUNE’S SON I furtherexplore the gaming world and it often served as more than a merediversion, but as a last resort for thosewith reduced circumstances whose social position did not allow any manner ofgaining a more honest income. Compelledto wager, many faced financial devastation and social ruin, while occasionally(and incomprehensibly), Fortune seemed to smile on particular individuals forno particular reason. One such colorful example(whom I delighted in bringing to life as a secondary character in FORTUNE’SSON) was William Douglas - third Earl March and Ruglen, later the Fourth Duke of Queensbury, nicknamed “OldQ”.

Although many young, aristocrats lacking more worthypursuits, squandered their days at race tracks, cockpits, or over the greenbaize tables, Lord March’s exploits and love of a wager are legendary even forthe gaming Georgians. His most infamouswager has come to be known over the ages as Lord March’s “race against time”and plays a significant role in FORTUNE’S SON.

(Excerpt from FORTUNE’S SON chapter 39)

March signaled a lackey for a newpack of cards to replace those he’d swept off the table to join the moundsscattered about the floor. “One can dovery well on credit,” said March. “By way of example, I have no fewer thanthree carriage makers, and four cartwrights, currently engineering a contraptionfor my upcoming wager with Taaffe and Sprowle.”

“Are you still about that madness,March?” George Selwyn asked.

“What madness is this?” Philip inquired,laying down fifty guineas, and hoping his careless manner belied the near-emptinessof his pockets. March and Selwyn matched his stakes, and he absently dealt thefirst two cards, face-up to his immediate left.

“A bloody chariot race,” said George.“As a fellow turf man, you’ll doubtless find the fellow’s scheme mostdiverting.”

“I daresay Hastings has had his fill of racingwagers.” Lord March’s jibe at Philip’s recent loss hit home.

“Not at all, my lord,” Philip repliedcoolly. “When one plays, one must expect eventually to pay.”

Lord March regarded Philip speculatively.“I never begrudge a man who wins from me fairly.”

“Then I remind you ’tis now pastnoon, and our friend Hastings is alive, hale, and in present company,” saidGeorge, referring to their earlier wager.

Lord March carelessly unfolded afifty-pound bank note from a wad of bills in his pocket, and handed it toGeorge, whilst continuing his narrative. “The chariot wager was made some six-monthpast when Count Taaffe, that damnable upstart Irishman, boasted of having thefastest chaise and four in the country. When challenged to prove the claim, he assertedhe’d clocked them at twelve miles in an hour. ‘Twelve miles?’ says I. ‘Why I’lllay you a thousand guineas, I can produce a chaise and team half again as fast.’Believing me out of my head, Taaffe readily accepted my wage.”

Philip replied with a chuckle, “You are outof your head, March! Eighteen miles in an hour? An impossible feat. The fastestcoach pulled by a team of six doesn’t exceed ten miles per hour.”

March broke into a slow, sly smile. “Acarriage is quite an ambiguous thing is it not?” March said. “Since the termsof the wager did not specify a body be fitted to the carriage, our passengerwill be slung on leather straps between the two hind wheels. While united theback carriage to the fore in the usual manner, to reduce weight, we used cordsand springs, and the pole and bars are of thin wood reinforced with supportingwire. As to the harness, an optimal lightness was achieved by constructing thetraces from silk, and the breechings, of whalebone.”

“Silk and whalebone? Do you wish toharness your horses or to corset them?” Philip chuckled. “And you think todrive this deathtrap at eighteen miles per hour?”

“A ridiculous notion, Hastings! Youthink I’d take such a risk when I employ any number of competent grooms todrive the contraption?”

“Dare I ask how many have perished inthe trials?”

“Why none have suffered worse than afew broken limbs,” March replied indignantly, but then confessed that he hadlost half a dozen horses, explaining, “They were only second-rate runners. Forthe true trials I require nothing less than four plate winners.”

Philip was astounded. “You would riskfour plate-winning horses for a thousand guineas? Mayhap your mind isdisordered after all.”

Lord March answered heatedly. “It’sthe principle of the thing, Hastings! Besides, the odds are posted at four toone against me, which means I stand to gain a huge sum in secondary wagers, butthe money has become inconsequential. Hell, I’m seven hundred pounds invested alreadyand as like to treble that amount before all is said and done. But I’ll see itthrough, by God.”

“That would answer,” Philip replied. “Myhat is off to you, March. You are truly one calculating devil. But if you loseany more horses in the training runs, how do you propose to win?”

“I only need four to race, Hastings.I propose to retain a stable of six plate winners as a contingency. I’msaving the best of the lot for last, and won’t set the date until I deem theequipage fit, and the horses fitter.” March’s lips curved up at the corners. “Afterall, I race only to win.” - ( End of excerpt)

LORD MARCH’S FAMOUS RACINGCHAISE

True to formuntil the very end, gambling, horses, and women continued to be Old Q’s life passions until his death at the ripe oldage of eighty five.

*~*~*~*

Emery Lee is a trueromantic and self-professed “GeorgianJunkie.” She is also the moderator forGoodreads Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers.

http://authoremerylee.com

http://georgianjunkie.wordpress.com

Guest Blogger Christina Courtenay on Men in Kilts

2011-11-07T08:34:00.003-05:00

Today I'd like to welcome Christina Courtenay to History Undressed! She's written an article today that is near and dear to many hearts :) -- Men in Kilts!

Men in Kilts

by Christina Courtenay

What is it about men in kilts that fascinates romance readers so? I’m not sure, but I have to confess I’m one of the fans of this genre. I’ve loved romance stories set in Scotland since I first discovered there was such a thing, and whether they have a bare-chested hero in a kilt on the cover or not, I can’t get enough of them. I was therefore really keen to write a novel set in the Highlands myself. Imagine my chagrin then, when I found that my hero couldn’t wear a kilt at all!

My story, Highland Storms, is set in 1754, eight years after the battle of Culloden, which as we all know, the Jacobites lost. As a consequence of the failed rebellion, the victorious English tried to virtually eradicate all Highland culture and this included their clothing. The New Disarming Act of 12^th August 1746 banned them from wearing any type of Highland dress (as well as possessing weapons) and this meant no tartan/plaids of any kind and no kilts. This didn’t stop me doing some research into Highland dress, however, and I was surprised to find that what we now refer to as kilts are very different to what most of the men wore before the Jacobite uprising. I thought I’d share some of my findings with you.

The kilts in those days were not the tiny versions we have now, although something similar did exist – they were called feileadh beag (little wrap or Philabeg in English). However, most Highlanders wore the old type of kilt, usually called a “great wrap”, “tartan wrap” or“belted plaid” back then. They were a much larger and rougher version and wouldn’t have looked as neat and tidy as the ready-made ones available to us.

A plaid by itself could be just a length of woollen fabric worn over the body like a mantle, but a “belted plaid” was different. It was made of a piece of material from about three to five yards long and two loom breadths wide, which equals around 50 inches. This was set in folds and fastened around the waist to make a sort of skirt that reached half way down the thigh. The rest was brought over the shoulders and fastened at the front, below the neck, usually with a bodkin, pin or sharp piece of stick. It could also be brought up over the head to protect the wearer during bad weather. It was a wonderful outfit for any soldier (especially the guerilla type, sleeping rough in the mountains) or anyone else travelling through the Highlands, as it served as bedding by night and clothes in the day time.

Made of wool, it must have smelled pretty bad (as did a lot of things in those days!) – the Englishman Edmund Burt, who lived in the Highlands for a while during the early 18^th century, reported to a friend that “… one thing I should have told you [which] was intolerable … the number of Highlanders that attended at table, whose feet and linen, or woolen, I don’t know which, were more than a match for the odour of the dishes.” Of course, if you make wool wet, it smells more than usual (anyone who has a dog will know what I mean). However, wetting it also has a benefit in that the moisture makes the wool thicker and thereby keeps you warmer. In contact with body heat, it makes a sort of steam, which meant Highlanders could even sleep in snow if they had to and still stay fairly warm. And Highlanders, from what I understand, were used to being wet – it didn’t bother them.

These plaids or tartans could be of many colors, but for warfare the Highlanders seem to have favored plainer ones, mostly brown. That way, they were camouflaged when they lay down in the heather and this apparently annoyed the English no end! In fact, the belted plaid was the garment the English objected to the most because they said it was ‘… calculated for the encouragement of an idle life in lying about upon the heather in the daytime instead of following some lawful employment … [it] serves to cover them in the night when they lie in wait among the mountains to commit robberies, composed of such colours as ... nearly resemble the heath on which they lie so you don’t see them until you’re very close, [and it] renders them ready at a moment’s notice to join in any rebellion’. Well, it seems very sensible to me so why wouldn’t they have worn it?

Natural dyes, like those made from nettles, lichen, leaves, heather and roots etc, were used for the wool. Only rich people imported dye like red or blue and it’s amazing the range of colors you can get by just using what nature provides. One of my aunts has experimented with colors made of different types of moss, for example, and although they are muted, they’re still very pretty.

The belted plaid was most convenient for those travelling in the mountains, as wearing breeches would not have given them the same freedom of movement. And apparently they really didn’t wear anything underneath their belted plaid except a shirt - Mr Burt also reports to his friend that an Englishwoman he knew had been offended by the sight before her when a Highland guide climbed a hill ahead of her!

The “little wrap” evolved when the men needed a less cumbersome garment. It consisted of only one width of material, pleated and belted round the waist, without the extra bit that was flung over the shoulders. This was preferable for certain occupations where the large belted plaid would just have been in the way.

Women didn’t wear belted plaids, of course, but they did have a very similar garment – the arisaid. This was more like a blanket or mantle used to keep them warm and dry in cold or wet weather. They put it on by pleating about two thirds of it round the waist and fixing it in place with a belt, leaving a gap at the front. The left-over piece, you pulled up behind you and round the shoulders, fastening it with a crude pin. Just like the belted plaid, it could be pulled up over the head. The arisaidswere often chequered before the Jacobite uprising, but afterwards, when they were still allowed, they were mostly plain, sometimes with a stripe at the edge. They sound very useful, especially in a place like the Highlands which is so often wet and cold!

Many thanks for having me as your guest, Eliza!

(Quote from “Burt’s Letters from the North of Scotland”, ISBN 978-1-874744-90-0)

Highland Storms

Who can you trust?

Betrayed by his brother and his childhood love, Brice Kinross needs a fresh start. So he welcomes the opportunity to leave Sweden for the Scottish Highlands to take over the family estate.

But there’s trouble afoot at Rosyth in 1754 and Brice finds himself unwelcome. The estate is in ruin and money is disappearing. He discovers an ally in Marsaili Buchanan, the beautiful redheaded housekeeper, but can he trust her?

Marsaili is determined to build a good life. She works hard at being housekeeper and harder still at avoiding men who want to take advantage of her. But she’s irresistibly drawn to the new clan chief, even though he’s made it plain he doesn’t want to be shackled to anyone.

And the young laird has more than romance on his mind. His investigations are stirring up an enemy. Someone who will stop at nothing to get what he wants – including Marsaili – even if that means destroying Brice’s life forever …

Highland Storms, ISBN: 978-1-906931-71-1, published by Choc Lit 1^st November 2011, available now from Amazon

Link to excerpt

Christina Courtenay lives in London, UK, and is married with two children. Although born in England she has a Swedish mother and was brought up in Sweden. In her teens, the family moved to Japan where she had the opportunity to travel extensively in the Far East.
Christina is Vice Chairman of the UK's Romantic Novelists’ Association. She won the Elizabeth Goudge Trophy for a historical short story in 2001 and the Katie Fforde Bursary for a promising new writer in 2006. Highland Storms is Christina’s third Choc Lit novel. Her debut, Trade Winds and prequel to Highland Storms, was short listed for the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s Pure Passion Award of Best Historical Fiction 2011. Her second novel, The Scarlet Kimono won Best Historical Fiction price for the Big Red Read and was shortlisted for the inaugural Festival of Romance Readers Award for Best Historical Read 2011.
As well as her novels, Christina has published four Regency novellas.
Visit: www.christinacourtenay.com
Follow Christina on Facebook and Twitter www.twitter.com/PiaCCourtenay

SCOTLAND’S EARTHQUAKE HISTORY by Nancy Lee Badger

2011-11-04T08:44:00.000-04:00

Welcome back to History Undressed, guest author, Nancy Lee Badger! Nancy has tantalized us so many times in the past with articles on dragons, ales and Scots, and she's back again to entertain us some more with her article today!

SCOTLAND’S EARTHQUAKE HISTORY

by Nancy Lee Badger

Earthquakes across the world havebeen in the news lately. From the recent devastation in Turkey, to theunderwater quake and its accompanying tsunami that caused thousands of deathsin Japan, when the earth moves, we listen. Even here in North Carolina, I feltthe house shake when an earthquake hit near Washington, DC just this pastAugust. What about another location where we rarely hear about experiencingtremblers: Scotland. Yes, Scotland has earthquakes but unless you live there,you probably do not hear talk of them on the news. Why, then, are earthquakesfound in my latest romantic fantasy, DRAGON IN THE MIST?

When I write a story—any story—Iresearch the location. To me, location is also a character, and as important asmy hero or heroine. Where a story takes place is quintessential to my plot, so myreaders can feel they are there, in the story. For DRAGON IN THE MIST, looselybased on the Loch Ness Monster, I needed a secondary reason for my hero, theAmerican scientist Rory Hawthorn, to travel to a small town on the banks ofLoch Ness. When my research gave me a glimmer of an idea, I quickly made mypresent-day American hero a geologist. Covertly searching for the root of afamily curse, he told his family he was traveling Scotland to research itsearthquake history.

Does Scotland experience quakes? Iwas as surprised as you to find statistics reporting several large earthquakesevery century. One of Scotland’s largest quakes occurred back in 1816, so I setthe beginning of my book in the past and used my heroine, Nessía—in her LochNess Monster from—causing the quakes by slamming her head into the loch’sunderwater sheer sides. 1816 fit the timeline I wanted to show in the book’sfirst chapter, after which the story continues in present day.

So, what exactly causes anearthquake? Let me start with a littleinformation about the area that includes Loch Ness, where my book takes place. LochNess, south of Inverness, is 23 miles long and about 1 mile wide. Thoughnarrow, it averages a whopping 600 feet in depth, making the loch dark, cold,and eerie. The loch is shaped like a long, deep trench and follows the line ofthe Great Glen Fault. The area was originally beneath a huge glacier.

Yes, Scotland’s Loch Ness has afault similar to the large, active San Andreas fault in California. Luckily forthe residents of the Highlands of Scotland, the Great Glen Fault is much lessactive, but it has seen activity for over 400 million years. Scientists havediscovered Foyers and Strontian granite from the same intrusion now 66 milesapart. Let’s just agree the land is shifting and moving, slow but sure.

Guess where the shatter belt ofrock produced by the fault movement mostly lies? Under Loch Ness! Visitors to Urquhart castle overlooking theloch might not have noticed the shattered rock evident in road cuttings. Heatand stress evidence tells local geologists that movement occurred over andover.

Let’s get back to the earthquakefrequency. The Loch Ness area, where DRAGON IN THE MIST is set, averages 3earthquakes each century that measure at least a 4.0 on the Richter Scale, themethod used to describe an earthquakes ferocity. In comparison to the strengthsand amounts of quakes that hit the state of California, Scotland’s rumbles arerare. Could I use such a history in my story? You bet! I twisted this historyto claim that my heroine, Nessía of the Lake, caused the earthquakes while inher serpentine, underwater wingless dragon form.

Why not? In fiction, even in aromance where I have set my story and its characters in our same world, I havethe freedom to change the rules a little.

Whatabout other areas of Scotland? I found an article from August 2011 about recentScottish earthquakes. Apparently, five earthquakes were felt in the westHighlands followed by the recording of three lesser quakes. The BritishGeological Survey (BGS) recorded the first and largest, of 2.9 magnitude, atLochailort, with smaller quakes recorded between 11:13 and 18:24. The weekend'sevents occurred in the Lochaber Geopark. As reported by the BBC.com/UK, Parkdirector Noel Williams said: "Most earthquakes in Lochaber occur asunweighting of the earth after the melting of the ice formed during the lastglacial period some 12,000 years ago. The land effectively 'bounces back upagain' a process Earth scientists term isostatic rebound."The BGS saidearthquakes were a common event in the west Highlands but added that to havefive on the same day was "slightly unusual".

As Imentioned earlier, earthquakes measuring over 4.0 are rare, but these smallerquakes still made the news because they were noticeable in quiet places, duringa quiet time. A previous quake was reported in Knoydart on 30 July. Earthquake ‘swarms’have also been recorded in Dumfrieshire and in parts of Perthshire. I did findanother story reporting a 3.5 quake rocked the western shores of Scotland inJanuary 2011, which included the southern end of Loch Ness. People in Inverness,at the northern end of Loch Ness, reported feeling it over 120 km away. It issafe to say Loch Ness rippled!

The islands off the western coastof Scotland were formed by volcanoes, and volcanoes breed quakes. I set my bookDRAGON’S CURSE on the island of Staffa due to its odd hexagonal rock formationsand huge caves. Scotland has no dormant or active volcanoes, but plenty of‘plugs’. A plug is the remainder of the neck of a Volcano. Devil’s tower inWyoming is a good example of an ancient volcano neck. In Scotland, ancientdwellings have been discovered on the summit of North Berwick Law, the roundedvolcanic remains which sit 613 feet above sea level. It even has a ‘tail’caused by a retreating glacier. A famous tourist attraction sits on another plug:Edinburgh Castle.

Earthquakes might be considered aminor aberration in Scotland…unless you live there! What my research taught me,is that you never know what you might find when you delve into the historybehind the topography of a book’s location. Use the facts to your advantagewhen writing to give your readers a better perspective while they fall in lovewith your characters. And to my readers, I hope you fall in love with Nessia,Rory, and Scotland when you read DRAGON’S CURSE and my latest release, DRAGONIN THE MIST.

Nancy has a prize for one very special commenter! Leave a comment and be eligible for a lovely 2012 Scottish Calendar full of lovely photos and funny comments! Sure to put a smile on the face of any laddie or lassie.

BOOKBLURB

Life without love is not worthliving.

Nessía of theLoch has lived beneath the murky water of Loch Ness since ancient times. Thepain of loneliness manifests in anger so strong, the entire valley shakes withearthquakes. In 1816, a Faerie queen pleads for her to cease the tremors andrewards Nessía with a human form. To stay human, she must find love. When theman she believes she loves casts her aside, Nessía responds to the betrayal bycursing the men of the MacDonald clan with the inability to keep a woman’slove. Only an act of true selflessness will break the curse.

After centuriespass, Nessía again searches for love. When Rory Hawthorn, an Americanscientist, arrives under the pretext of researching the earthquakes but inreality to research his MacDonald heritage and the curse, she believes she hasfound the perfect mate.

Amid stolenkisses, another earthquake, a steamy night of passion, and a broken heart,Nessía returns to the murky depths of the loch. When Rory dives in to followher, he meets the green, scaly Loch Ness Monster. Assuming Nessía is in danger,he is intent on killing the monster and saving the woman he loves.

EXCERPT

“Whydid he call you Nessie? You obviously don’t like it. What’s your real name?”the stranger asked while his gaze bore into her chest.

Let him feasthis eyes.

Hesipped his ale, all cool and calm, as he waited for an answer. She pulled backboth shoulders. Waiting until he glanced up, she turned away to ring up adeparting customer’s bill, then added the excess to her apron pocket.

Ha! Monty gaveme a ‘tip’ then left me for his wife.

“Ido not share familiarities with strangers, sir.” She preferred to tug thedress’s lace edging up, but held back. The trim chafed her low neckline andupper arms, but Mac insisted his servers dress in period costume.

“Forthe tourists, lass,” Mac explained the day she walked in and asked for a job.She did not mind the long dress and doeskin shoes, per se. The whole idea ofclothing was bothersome. She enjoyed swimming to the dark depths of the lochclad only in deep green scales.

Evennow, she yearned to swim naked.

“Well,now. I can fix that.”

Ittook Nessía a few heartbeats to understand his comeback. Did he refer to herclothing, or to swimming naked? Only oneway to find out. “Fix what, sir?”

“I’llintroduce myself, and then you tell me your name. ‘Easy as pie, and polite asrain’, my father always said.”

Nessíafroze. No, her response caught in her throat and her blood thickened into ice.Fingering the coins in her apron, she willed her talons to stay retracted whileher left foot tapped the plank floor. The stranger’s sultry voice was notfamiliar, but the words rang true, because Monty had spoken those, centuriesago.

Nessíastepped closer to the bar. A million questions popped into her head, but shestayed silent. Let him speak first andprove he has no affiliation to that damnable clan.

“Igo by Rory Hawthorn. Though I’m American, I’ve traced my ancestors to thistown. I plan to be here for quite some time exploring. Learning. Studying theunusual earthquake history of the area.”

Earthquakes?What would he say if he knew I caused those tremors?

RoryHawthorn, so called, moved closer. He leaned on the bar, and whispered as ifthe next words were for her ears only.

“AndI very much want to know you better.”

AUTHOR BIO

Nancy loves chocolate-chip shortbread,wool plaids wrapped around the trim waist of a Scottish Highlander, the clangof dirks and broadswords, and the sound of bagpipes in the air. Nancy lives thedream. After growing up in Huntington, New York, and raising two handsome sonsin New Hampshire, Nancy moved to North Carolina where she writes full-time. Sheand her family continue to volunteer at the New Hampshire Highland Games eachfall. Nancy is a member of RWA, Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, Sisters InCrime, FF&P Romance Writers, and the Celtic Heart Romance Writers.

Check out her website www.nancyleebadger.com

and her blog www.RescuingRomance.nancyleebadger.com.
Follow her on Twitter @NLBadger
and on Facebook http://on.fb.me/scmtx5

Title: DRAGON IN THE MIST

Author: Nancy Lee Badger
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Length: 17,000 words
Amazon: http://amzn.to/nNpfNV
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/pzEYYh
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/oKGRDY

Video of the Week!

2011-11-02T08:29:00.001-04:00

You're going to love this one!!!

Marriage in the Highlands in the Early 1500's by Margaret Mallory

2011-11-01T07:19:00.001-04:00

Welcome back to History Undressed, Margaret Mallory, the talented author of medieval and Scottish romance! Today she is going to tantalize us with talks of marriage! Read on, and don't forget to comment for a chance to win a copy of her new release!

Marriage in the Highlands in the Early 1500’s*

Margaret Mallory

Dunscaith, home of the Chieftain of the MacDonalds of Sleat

The most surprising thing I learned in my research for myTHE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS series was about the marriage practices of Highlandersin the Western Isles, particularly the chieftains, at that time my books takeplace.

In the early 1500’s, these Gaelic-speaking Highlanders maintainedtheir old Celtic customs alongside their Christian beliefs. Priests were notnecessary to make a marriage, which was fortunate since priests were few and farbetween in the Highlands at this time. In Celtic secular marriage, it wascommon for couples to enter a trial marriage. At the end of a year, eitherparty could leave the marriage. If the couple decided to stick with it, they couldhave their marriage blessed at the same time their first child was christenedwhen the priest made his rounds. Childrenborn of these trial marriages were considered legitimate, and men generallyclaimed children born outside of marriage as well. Divorce was permitted by either party onfairly loose grounds.

Chieftains, who were more than kings to their clans, disregardededicts from Rome as freely as they ignored edits from the Crown. For them, marriage was a means of making analliance with another clan—and they changed alliances all the time. Henry VIII had nothing on some of thesechieftains when it came to multiple wives, though a chieftain could simply “setaside” a wife, rather than look for an excuse to have her killed.

Cawdor Castle

The chieftains did not ignore the Church rules entirely, butRome was a long way away so they generally followed the principle that it wasbetter to ask forgiveness than permission. Though a chieftain might seek anannulment, he was unlikely to wait the two or three years to get an answer fromRome before taking a new wife. The petitionfor annulment was often based on the marriage being in violation of the rulesof consanguinity, though everyone had been well aware of the issue at the time ofthe marriage.

As might be expected, a clan chieftain’s serial (andsometimes concurrent) marriages did not always lead to family harmony or goodrelations with other clans. The MacDonalds of Sleat, the clan of my fictionalheroes, had their share of such conflict.

Hugh (Uisdean), the first MacDonald of Sleat and thegrandfather of my fictional character Connor, was one of three sons thatAlexander, the third Lord of the Isles, had by different women. Despite beingadmonished by the pope himself for putting away his true wife and “adhering” toHugh’s beautiful and highborn mother, Alexander refused to part with her. Hishalf-sons, however, got along well.

Hugh had six sons by six different women, all from prominentfamilies. Unfortunately, his sons did not get along as well as Hugh had withhis half-brothers. In fact, Hugh’s first son hated his half-brothers so muchthat upon his death he turned the clan’s lands over to the Crown to keep theothers from inheriting them. Though later chieftains held onto the lands, theirlack of legal title caused the clan problems for years. Two of Hugh’s othersons were murdered by their half-brothers, and another was murdered by Hugh’s grandsons.

This family strife plays an important role in all four booksin THE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS. In THE SINNER, I also included as secondarycharacters two couples who were wed in order to make alliances between their respectiveclans—with wildly differing results.

Margaret Mallory at Eilean Donan

I drew on a well-known incident involving the Macleanchieftain, Lachlan Cattanach (Shaggy), and his wife Catherine, whose father andthen brother were chieftains of the powerful Campbell clan. I won’t say herewhat happened, but when Shaggy was found murdered in bed on a visit to Edinburghsome years later, everyone assumed it was done by a Campbell in retribution.

Catherine’s brother John had better luck in marriage. Whenthe Thane of Cawdor died leaving his baby daughter Muriel as his sole heir,clan chieftains all over the Highlands hoped to arrange a match that wouldresult in one of their sons becoming the next Thane of Cawdor one day. WhenMuriel was still a toddler, the Campbell chieftain preempted the others byhaving his men snatch Muriel when she was outside the walls of Cawdor Castletaking in the fresh air with her nursemaid. Muriel was raised in the Campbellchieftain’s household and married to John as soon as she reached twelve, theage of consent. By all reports, this marriage, which was made solely for thepurpose of gaining lands and wealth for the Campbells, was a very happy one.

Then as now, some marriages turnout well despite how they started.

* My primary source is “Marriage, Concubinage and Divorce inGaelic Scotland,” by David Sellar, from Volume 51 of the Transactions of the Gaelic Society of Inverness. (Thanks to SharronGunn for referring me to the article.) I also found supporting information inclan histories from numerous sources.

~~~

I hope you’llenjoy the slide show I put together of photos I took of some of the castles& other settings that appear in THE SINNER. To see the show, click here ,then click on “show info” on the upper right for descriptions.

For Book GroupDiscussion Questions, blurbs, excerpts, and other information relating to mybooks, please visit my website: www.MargaretMallory.com.

I’d love torespond to your comments or questions! I’ll give away a signed copy of THESINNER to one of the commenters.

*~*~*~*

THE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS: BOOK 2

Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.

IRRESISTIBLE DESIRE

Alex MacDonald is known for his skill as a warrior, his prowess with women, and his vow to never take a wife. But now his chieftain has asked him to make the ultimate sacrifice: wed Glynis MacNeil, a lass famed throughout the Highlands for her exquisite beauty—and defiant ways.
Familiar with heartbreak, Glynis refuses to fall for another handsome scoundrel. Yet when Alex's past sins force an unlikely union, Glynis gives in to temptation and becomes his wife. Will their newfound passion be strong enough to fight the enemy that threatens their home, their clan, and their very lives?